What is the course about?
This is an introduction to writing for popular television that offers stepping stones for students to develop their own drama idea.
This is a live online course. You will need:
- Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
- A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook), or a tablet/iPad/smart phone/iPhone if you don't have a computer.
- Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.
What will we cover?
- The structure of a television episode
- Synopsis, outlines and treatments
- The development of characters
- The plotting and planning of a storyline.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Recognise the development stages of a drama project
- Start to write a script
- Give and receive feedback with sensitivity.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This an introductory course designed for students who want to start writing TV drama, though it will help if you have had some exposure to screenwriting basics previously. An ability to write and speak fluent English is essential.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
- In class exercises
- PowerPoint presentation
- Original material handouts and samples including storylines and episode extracts
- DVD and video clips.
All writing courses at City Lit will involve an element of workshop. This means that students will produce work which will be discussed in an open and constructive environment with the tutor and other students. The college operates a policy of constructive criticism, and all feedback on another student’s work by the tutor and other students should be delivered in that spirit.
For classes longer than one day regular reading and writing exercises will be set for completion at home to set deadlines.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Pen and paper.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
If you're a beginning writer, why not expand your focus by enrolling on Ways into screenwriting? You can also progress to our term-long Television screenwriting course.
All students are invited to join us at Late Lines, our regular performance night for City Lit writers. Students are also encouraged to submit their work to Between the Lines, our annual anthology of creative writing. For the latest news, courses and events, stay in touch with the Department on Facebook and Twitter.
