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Advanced Screenwriting (CWRI30014)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1
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Advanced Screenwriting focuses on the creation of an original script for screen. This subject builds upon skills learnt in the second year Creative Writing subject Writing for Screen. Students will enhance, through practical workshops, their screenwriting techniques in three areas: Film, TV and New Media forms. Students will develop a creative project comprising a concept and script excerpts from either: a short film, a feature length film, a TV pilot, or a new media project: such as a web series or video game. Advanced Screenwriting draws upon a wide range of examples and contemporary applications of screenwriting, including a range of genres, along with contemporary media innovations. As a result students should have, on completion of the subject, an understanding of how screenwriting history, common techniques and new advances in the form relate to current practice.

Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:



  • gain advanced knowledge of the development of a script for screen: from imagining and shaping a concept, pitching the work, workshopping, drafting and structuring material, to the preparation of a script excerpt formatted to industry standards;
  • apply the conventions of the screenwriting process and craft to their creative work with an awareness of historical, social and cultural context;
  • workshop, critically analyse, and interact with peers, giving constructive feedback on screenplays and creative concepts across the forms of film, tv and new media;
  • recognise the distinct techniques of writing for screen as they are employed in film, tv and new media writing and to articulate an advanced understanding of screenwriting terminology;
  • gain a deeper understanding of the vocational possibilities in writing for the screen; and
  • demonstrate, as informed participants in the creative writing community, a respect for ethical values and diverse cultures.

Generic skills

At the completion of this subject, students should gain the following generic skills:

  • the ability to work cooperatively within a group to provide support and constructive feedback to fellow classmates;
  • the ability to complete drafting and writing at a high-level of literacy;
  • the ability to independently devise and articulate a creative work; and
  • the ability to conceptualise, prepare and present their creative projects in both verbal and written modes.

Last updated: 15 January 2025