Script Writing

Aimed at young people (8+) Scriptwriting involves considering their interests, comprehension levels, and the unique issues they face. Drama scripts can be a powerful medium for exploring topics relevant to youth, such as identity, friendship, family dynamics, and social issues. Here’s an outline that can serve as a foundation for scriptwriting workshops or curriculum development for young playwrights:

Objective: Equip young individuals with the skills to create compelling drama scripts that resonate with their experiences and spark engaging performances.

Introduction to Drama and Scriptwriting

• Definition and history
• Forms of drama: Theatre, television, and film
• Role of drama in society and education
• Basics of scriptwriting
• The role of a scriptwriter
• Reading and analysing sample scripts

Elements of a Story

• Plot, character, setting, theme, and dialogue
• Conflict and resolution

Structure of a Drama Script

• Three-act structure: Setup, confrontation, resolution
• Alternative structures
• The importance of pacing

Idea Generation

• Brainstorming techniques
• Adapting real-life experiences
• Research and inspiration

Creating Characters

• Character profiles and development
• Protagonists, antagonists, and supporting characters
• Character arcs and growth

Dialogue and Subtext

• Writing natural dialogue
• Using subtext to enhance meaning

Show, Don’t Tell

• Visual storytelling
• Creating scenes that show character and plot development

Outlining and Drafting

• Creating outlines and beat sheets
• Writing the first draft

Revision and Editing

• Peer reviews and feedback
• Rewriting and polishing

Script Formatting

• Standard script format
• Software and tools for scriptwriting

The Final Script

• Table reads and script presentations
• Preparing the script for performance or submission

Collaborative Writing

• Group script development
• Writing as a team

Staging and Performance Basics

• Understanding stage directions
• The importance of blocking and timing

Writing for Different Mediums

• Differences between theatre, television, and film scripts
• Web series and new media platforms

Developing a Short Play or Scene

• Applying learned skills to a complete script
• Peer critiques and revisions

Performance and Feedback

• Organizing a script reading or performance
• Gathering and responding to audience feedback

By the end of the course, participants should have a solid understanding of the scriptwriting process and possess the skills to create their original drama scripts.