Academy › Diploma Courses › Screenwriting
Screenwriting
Course Overview
Course Objective
Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of screenwriting principles and techniques — including log line and synopsis writing, character development, dialogue writing, step outlining, and script development — enabling them to write effective scripts and grow as screenwriters.
Cross-faculty production: Students will see their scripts brought to life on screen by their peers from the Directing, Producing and Acting programmes — gaining first-hand insight into the collaborative nature of filmmaking.
What You'll Learn
Master screenwriting principles: log lines, synopses, step outlines, and script development
Write believable characters with compelling arcs and effective, nuanced dialogue
Write across multiple formats: short drama, documentary, music video, and TV commercial
Develop a feature film from initial concept through pitch document, treatment, and step outline
Pitch and package scripts to producers, directors, and investors
Analyse successful screenplays and apply those lessons to your own writing
How You're Assessed
Assessment System
Formative Assessment
40%Quizzes & tests — theoretical concepts and principles
20%Practical exercises & scripts
10%Class participation & engagement
10%Summative Assessment
60%Short script — demonstrating effective screenwriting craft
30%Step outline & script development
15%Final written exam — theoretical concepts and principles
15%Attendance: Given the intensive nature of this course, unapproved absences may negatively impact your academic performance and final grade. Please notify your instructor in advance if you need to miss a class.
40 Weeks · 2 Semesters
Course Curriculum
Each semester is 20 weeks, combining writing theory with practical script exercises across multiple formats and genres.
Theory
- ›Introduction to screenwriting principles and techniques
- ›Understanding the role of the screenwriter in the film and television industry
- ›Writing log lines and synopses
Theory
- ›Understanding character development
- ›Writing effective dialogue
Practical
- ›Write a 10-minute script featuring two characters only, set in one location
Theory
- ›Understanding the purpose and format of step outlines
- ›Developing scripts from step outlines
Practical
- ›Write a step outline for a short script
Theory
- ›Understanding the format and structure of short scripts
Practical
- ›Write a 5-minute script utilising three locations, using the step outline as a guide
- ›Note: these 5-minute scripts will be produced by students from other faculties — Directing, Producing and Acting
Theory
- ›Understanding the format and structure of music video scripts
- ›Understanding the format and structure of television commercials
Practical
- ›Write two music video scripts
- ›Write four television commercial scripts
Revele Creative Academy
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