Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2021 - CA 238W E100

Screenwriting I (3)

Class Number: 7898

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 8 – Dec 7, 2021: Thu, 5:30–8:20 p.m.
    Vancouver

  • Prerequisites:

    One of CA (or FPA) 136, 137 or 253 and prior approval.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

This course introduces the methodologies of writing for the screen in various styles, including dramatic, documentary and experimental forms, with an emphasis on structure and the creative expression of visual ideas. Students will perform a variety of writing assignments and each will be expected to complete one or more short original scripts. Students with credit for CA (or FPA) 332 or 238 for credit may not take this course for further credit. Students with credit for FPA 238W may not take this course for further credit. Writing.

COURSE DETAILS:

The course will be primarily a workshop model with a focus on the craft of screenwriting, critical discourse and constructive feedback. Participation is required and will be a substantial consideration in regards to grading. Students will be expected to share work in class and provide respectful verbal and written feedback to one another. To gain more insight into the craft of screenwriting we will also be examining and breaking down several works throughout the course. 

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

The primary goal of this course is to gain more insight into the student's individual writing practice, to further develop their voice and to explore techniques in regards to the craft of screenwriting, editing and responding to feedback. By the end of the term students will have completed two short scripts. 

Grading

  • Writing Exercise 1 5%
  • Writing Exercise 2 5%
  • First Draft 1 15%
  • Revision Draft 1 15%
  • First Draft 2 20%
  • Revision Draft 2 20%
  • Participation 20%

REQUIREMENTS:

Over the course of the term, students are required to write and revise two short screenplays (10 pages or less), to complete two writing exercises and a number of in class exercises. Scripts will be read aloud in class and students will be expected to provide thoughtful and constructive feedback on one another's work.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN FALL 2021

Teaching at SFU in fall 2021 will involve primarily in-person instruction, with approximately 70 to 80 per cent of classes in person/on campus, with safety plans in place.  Whether your course will be in-person or through remote methods will be clearly identified in the schedule of classes.  You will also know at enrollment whether remote course components will be “live” (synchronous) or at your own pace (asynchronous).

Enrolling in a course acknowledges that you are able to attend in whatever format is required.  You should not enroll in a course that is in-person if you are not able to return to campus, and should be aware that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as early as possible in order to prepare for the fall 2021 term.