An Introduction to Screenwriting

Online Course

Future Learn
An Introduction to Screenwriting

What is the course about?

An Introduction to Screenwriting
The course An Introduction to Screenwriting is an online class provided by UEA (University of East Anglia) through Future Learn. It may be possible to receive a verified certification or use the course to prepare for a degree.

This online course explores the key concepts and fundamental principles involved in the process of screenwriting.

Course description
  • 2 weeks
  • Screenplays form the starting point for most dramatic films, the essential work from which all other filmmaking flows. All of the tender romance, terrifying action and memorable lines begin at the screenwriter’s desk. This free online course will introduce you to the basic elements and key concepts behind a professional screenplay.
  • The University of East Anglia’s School of Literature, Drama and Creative Writing have built this course with instructors and recent alumni from their famed course in Creative Writing.
  • Where could this course take me?
  • The course is a must for anyone new to scriptwriting and for more experienced writers who wish to raise their scriptwriting to a professional level. It will establish a common vocabulary for approaching the screenplay and form the basis for upcoming courses in dramatic adaptation, the crime screenplay, and other genres and skills.
  • What and how will I learn?
  • You’ll learn from a mixture of basic theory, script analysis and practical exercises. We will explore key principles as they’re expressed in great films, then immediately apply these concepts. Videos, articles and discussion steps will offer you the opportunity to learn and engage with other learners on key concepts and ideas.
  • By the end of the course, you will understand the key concepts necessary to write an effective screenplay and be fluent in the language used to discuss the form.
  • Basic characteristics of screen story
  • Development of a basic storyline
  • Story structures including The Three Act Structure and alternate story structures
  • Characters and developing character outlines
  • The construction of scenes including the role of dialogue and character voice
  • The workflow for writing a first draft of feature film screenplay
  • The process for screenplay formatting
  • Writing – and finishing – a first draft
  • Explore key issues in the practice of creating screenplays
  • Explain the basic principles of the screenwriting process
  • Identify the essentials of the screenplay format
  • Discuss the construction of a professional script
  • Design a story ‘pitch’
  • There are no formal requirements for this course, just an interest in screenwriting.
  • UEA (University of East Anglia)
  • The University of East Anglia is an internationally renowned university providing top quality academic, social and cultural facilities to over 15,000 students from over 100 countries around the globe.

Prerequisites & Facts

An Introduction to Screenwriting

Course Topic

Creative Arts & Media, Literature, Writing

University, College, Institution

UEA (University of East Anglia)

Course Skill Level

Course Language

English

Place of class

Online, self-paced (see curriculum for more information)

Degree

Certificate

Degree & Cost

An Introduction to Screenwriting

To obtain a verified certificate from Future Learn / UEA (University of East Anglia) you have to finish this course or the latest version of it, if there is a new edition. The class may be free of charge, but there could be some cost to receive a verified certificate or to access the learning materials. The specifics of the course may have been changed, please consult the provider to get the latest quotes and news.
UEA (University of East Anglia)
An Introduction to Screenwriting
provided by Future Learn

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School: UEA (University of East Anglia)
Topic: Creative Arts & Media, Literature, Writing