KPB116 Introduction to Screenwriting
To view more information for this unit, select Unit Outline from the list below. Please note the teaching period for which the Unit Outline is relevant.
| Unit code: | KPB116 |
|---|---|
| Equivalent(s): | KWB102 |
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Timetable | Details in HiQ, if available |
| Availabilities |
|
| CSP student contribution | $2,124 |
| Pre-2021 CSP student contribution | $996 The pre-2021 commonwealth supported place (CSP) contribution amount only applies to students enrolled in a course prior to 2021. To learn more, visit our Understanding your fees page. |
| Domestic tuition unit fee | $4,356 |
| International unit fee | $4,668 |
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2025, Kelvin Grove, Internal
| Unit code: | KPB116 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Equivalent: | KWB102 |
| Coordinator: | Sue Cake | susan.cake@qut.edu.au |
Overview
This unit introduces various principles, elements and processes for script development with a focus on fictional storytelling for the screen. The unit examines and applies screen language to develop stories for the screen, including generating and selecting ideas best suited to the audio-visual medium, script development processes, writing synopses and drafting screenplays. The unit addresses principles of storytelling, industry standards and practical skills involved in developing projects for narrative productions within film, television and other media. The focus is on how to develop ideas, create engaging characters, and construct scenes for visual mediums. Writing scripts for a range of screen media formats is a learned craft and requires discipline, perseverance, and an understanding of industry practice. Possessing this key knowledge provides capabilities to develop concepts through to script stage.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Discern and critically evaluate technical and aesthetic aspects of script development.
- Demonstrate complex problem solving through iterative experimentation and the creative and critical development of suitable concepts for audio visual storytelling.
- Demonstrate creative and technical proficiency through the application of scriptwriting skills and processes.
- Demonstrate respect for cultural and social differences and apply ethical judgement to script development contexts.
Content
This unit focuses on principles involved in fictional storytelling for the screen. Content addresses the various stages involved in developing and visualising concepts through to scripting stage.
Topics include:
- generating suitable screen concepts including writing about issues of concern such as climate change
- character-driven narrative development that considers inclusive and diverse representations
- story and scene construction
- applying visual language to the development of screenplays
- ethical and inclusive storytelling including protocols for working with Indigenous people, culture and concepts
- Students are exposed to a range of digital screenwriting tools.
Learning Approaches
This unit is taught through a combination of lectures, online learning materials and tutorials where students are encouraged to examine and critique examples from a number of theoretical and production perspectives. Students conduct individual critical analysis, develop a short self-contained narrative screenplay and develop an understanding of the collaborative nature of industry script development through participation in a simulated writers room.
Please be advised that this unit may include the presentation and scholarly analysis of material and subject matters that may be considered confronting, such as certain representations of race, class, gender and violence. QUT counselling support is available should you feel the need to avail yourself of these services.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
You will receive formative feedback during class exercises and discussions, including using industrial script development practices to conduct peer feedback. You will receive summative feedback on formal assessment tasks.
Assessment
Overview
There are three assessment items for this unit. The first is a critical analysis of a screenplay. The second assessment is a character profile and story outline for a short form concept. The third assessment is a short, self-contained fictional screenplay.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Script Analysis
Conduct a critical analysis of a short form screenplay to write an ai-generated coverage report. Apply script development terminology to evaluate how the concept, structure, language and theme creates emotional engagement. Apply screenwriting skills and knowledge to make recommendations for improvement.
This is an authentic assessment because entry level jobs for screenwriters often involves writing coverage of existing screenplays.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Character Profile & Outline
Apply critical and creative problem solving skills to the development of a suitable screen concept featuring a protagonist who experiences an emotional arc.
This is an authentic assessment because creating characters who undergo an emotional journey have greater capacity to emotionally engage audiences.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Screenplay
Apply critical and creative problem solving to demonstrate iterative development throughout writing workshops of a self-contained, fictional screenplay.
This is an authentic assessment because scripted content is the foundation of fictional screen production.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Requirements to Study
Requirements
All students are requested to visit and review the Health and Safety information on the HiQ web pages (CIESJ Tier 1 HSE requirement).
Resources
Refer to the unit’s Canvas site for links to additional readings (via QUT Readings) and learning resources.
Resource Materials
Recommended text(s)
Cooper, P. & Dancyger, K. (2005) (3rd ed) Writing The Short Film, Boston: Focal Press.
Cowgill, L. (2005) (2nd ed) Writing Short Films: Structure & Content For Screenwriters, Los Angeles: Lone Eagle.
Dancyger, K. & Rush, J. (2007) Alternative Scriptwriting: successfully breaking the rules., Boston: Focal Press.
Seger, L. [1990] Creating unforgettable characters, New York: H. Holt
Vogler, C. and Montez, M. [2007] [3rd ed] The writer’s journey: Mythic structure for writers, California: Michael Wiese Productions.
Other
To enable your full participation in the virtual learning environment, for example, participating in online activities and engaging with online learning materials, you will need access to a reliable computer with an internet connection, webcam, headset and microphone, as well as a learning environment where you are able to fully participate undisturbed when required.
Risk Assessment Statement
For risks associated with using campus buildings or QUT facilities, refer to the HiQ Health and Safety information.
Where substantial computer-based work is required, particularly in the case of fully online students, you are recommended to take regular rest breaks when engaging in prolonged computer-based work, and ensure that your workstation is set up for optimal comfort to prevent strain or injury.
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.CA01 Bachelor of Creative Arts
- Cite and discuss a broad and coherent knowledge of historical and contemporary cultural contexts for creative practice, including the contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledges.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Identify and demonstrate knowledge of the techniques and concepts underpinning your field of creative practice.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, ULO3, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Demonstrate complex problem solving through iterative experimentation and the creative and critical development of ideas and outcomes.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Demonstrate technical proficiency and a knowledge of contemporary digital practices and technologies in one or more disciplines and apply these in creative and critical settings.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, ULO3, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Communicate, represent, and promote your work in ways relevant to your creative field.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Discern, critically analyse, and synthesise knowledge in complex creative and critical settings.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Work productively as a leader and collaborator in disciplinary and interdisciplinary practices.
Relates to: ULO4, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Formulate and apply an independent perspective through contextual research, reflection, and by acting on the informed critique of others.
Relates to: ULO2, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Demonstrate respect for cultural and social differences, sustainability, and work with integrity across all practice and professional settings.
Relates to: ULO4, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Operate with initiative, ethical judgement and professionalism, both alone and in groups.
Relates to: ULO4, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay
KK34 Bachelor of Fine Arts
- Identify and demonstrate knowledge of the techniques and concepts underpinning your field of creative practice.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3 - Demonstrate complex problem solving through iterative experimentation and the creative and critical development of ideas and outcomes.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3 - Demonstrate technical proficiency in at least one area of your field of creative practice.
Relates to: ULO1 - Communicate independent learning clearly and coherently in diverse modes relevant to your field of creative practice.
Relates to: ULO1 - Discern, critically analyse and synthesise knowledge in complex creative practice settings.
Relates to: ULO3
KK43 Bachelor of Creative Industries
- Demonstrate broad and coherent theoretical and practical knowledge required for creative enterprise, career development and interdisciplinary collaborations, supported by depth in at least one creative disciplinary area.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Demonstrate well-developed cognitive and ideation skills to identify, analyse and evaluate opportunities to address authentic complex problems.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, ULO3, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Demonstrate technical expertise to support skills and knowledge within the Creative Industries.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Communicate effectively in a range of forms across multiple media modes, for sharing and disseminating knowledge, skills and ideas, and collaborative practice and navigation of social networks.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Apply and adapt creative disciplinary knowledge and skills with agility in a range of industry, community and intercultural contexts.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, ULO4, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Embody social and ethical responsibilities and exhibit well-developed judgement with resilience, integrity, curiosity and responsibility.
Relates to: ULO4, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2025, Online
| Unit code: | KPB116 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Equivalent: | KWB102 |
Overview
This unit introduces various principles, elements and processes for script development with a focus on fictional storytelling for the screen. The unit examines and applies screen language to develop stories for the screen, including generating and selecting ideas best suited to the audio-visual medium, script development processes, writing synopses and drafting screenplays. The unit addresses principles of storytelling, industry standards and practical skills involved in developing projects for narrative productions within film, television and other media. The focus is on how to develop ideas, create engaging characters, and construct scenes for visual mediums. Writing scripts for a range of screen media formats is a learned craft and requires discipline, perseverance, and an understanding of industry practice. Possessing this key knowledge provides capabilities to develop concepts through to script stage.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Discern and critically evaluate technical and aesthetic aspects of script development.
- Demonstrate complex problem solving through iterative experimentation and the creative and critical development of suitable concepts for audio visual storytelling.
- Demonstrate creative and technical proficiency through the application of scriptwriting skills and processes.
- Demonstrate respect for cultural and social differences and apply ethical judgement to script development contexts.
Content
This unit focuses on principles involved in fictional storytelling for the screen. Content addresses the various stages involved in developing and visualising concepts through to scripting stage.
Topics include:
- generating suitable screen concepts including writing about issues of concern such as climate change
- character-driven narrative development that considers inclusive and diverse representations
- story and scene construction
- applying visual language to the development of screenplays
- ethical and inclusive storytelling including protocols for working with Indigenous people, culture and concepts
- Students are exposed to a range of digital screenwriting tools.
Learning Approaches
This unit is taught through a combination of lectures, online learning materials and tutorials where students are encouraged to examine and critique examples from a number of theoretical and production perspectives. Students conduct individual critical analysis, develop a short self-contained narrative screenplay and develop an understanding of the collaborative nature of industry script development through participation in a simulated writers room.
Please be advised that this unit may include the presentation and scholarly analysis of material and subject matters that may be considered confronting, such as certain representations of race, class, gender and violence. QUT counselling support is available should you feel the need to avail yourself of these services.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
You will receive formative feedback during class exercises and discussions, including using industrial script development practices to conduct peer feedback. You will receive summative feedback on formal assessment tasks.
Assessment
Overview
There are three assessment items for this unit. The first is a critical analysis of a screenplay. The second assessment is a character profile and story outline for a short form concept. The third assessment is a short, self-contained fictional screenplay.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Script Analysis
Conduct a critical analysis of a short form screenplay to write an ai-generated coverage report. Apply script development terminology to evaluate how the concept, structure, language and theme creates emotional engagement. Apply screenwriting skills and knowledge to make recommendations for improvement.
This is an authentic assessment because entry level jobs for screenwriters often involves writing coverage of existing screenplays.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Character Profile & Outline
Apply critical and creative problem solving skills to the development of a suitable screen concept featuring a protagonist who experiences an emotional arc.
This is an authentic assessment because creating characters who undergo an emotional journey have greater capacity to emotionally engage audiences.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Screenplay
Apply critical and creative problem solving to demonstrate iterative development throughout writing workshops of a self-contained, fictional screenplay.
This is an authentic assessment because scripted content is the foundation of fictional screen production.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Requirements to Study
Requirements
All students are requested to visit and review the Health and Safety information on the HiQ web pages (CIESJ Tier 1 HSE requirement).
Resources
Refer to the unit’s Canvas site for links to additional readings (via QUT Readings) and learning resources.
Resource Materials
Recommended text(s)
Cooper, P. & Dancyger, K. (2005) (3rd ed) Writing The Short Film, Boston: Focal Press.
Cowgill, L. (2005) (2nd ed) Writing Short Films: Structure & Content For Screenwriters, Los Angeles: Lone Eagle.
Dancyger, K. & Rush, J. (2007) Alternative Scriptwriting: successfully breaking the rules., Boston: Focal Press.
Seger, L. [1990] Creating unforgettable characters, New York: H. Holt
Vogler, C. and Montez, M. [2007] [3rd ed] The writer’s journey: Mythic structure for writers, California: Michael Wiese Productions.
Other
To enable your full participation in the virtual learning environment, for example, participating in online activities and engaging with online learning materials, you will need access to a reliable computer with an internet connection, webcam, headset and microphone, as well as a learning environment where you are able to fully participate undisturbed when required.
Risk Assessment Statement
For risks associated with using campus buildings or QUT facilities, refer to the HiQ Health and Safety information.
Where substantial computer-based work is required, particularly in the case of fully online students, you are recommended to take regular rest breaks when engaging in prolonged computer-based work, and ensure that your workstation is set up for optimal comfort to prevent strain or injury.
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.CA01 Bachelor of Creative Arts
- Cite and discuss a broad and coherent knowledge of historical and contemporary cultural contexts for creative practice, including the contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledges.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO4, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Identify and demonstrate knowledge of the techniques and concepts underpinning your field of creative practice.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, ULO3, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Demonstrate complex problem solving through iterative experimentation and the creative and critical development of ideas and outcomes.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Demonstrate technical proficiency and a knowledge of contemporary digital practices and technologies in one or more disciplines and apply these in creative and critical settings.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, ULO3, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Communicate, represent, and promote your work in ways relevant to your creative field.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Discern, critically analyse, and synthesise knowledge in complex creative and critical settings.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Work productively as a leader and collaborator in disciplinary and interdisciplinary practices.
Relates to: ULO4, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Formulate and apply an independent perspective through contextual research, reflection, and by acting on the informed critique of others.
Relates to: ULO2, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Demonstrate respect for cultural and social differences, sustainability, and work with integrity across all practice and professional settings.
Relates to: ULO4, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Operate with initiative, ethical judgement and professionalism, both alone and in groups.
Relates to: ULO4, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay
KK34 Bachelor of Fine Arts
- Identify and demonstrate knowledge of the techniques and concepts underpinning your field of creative practice.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3 - Demonstrate complex problem solving through iterative experimentation and the creative and critical development of ideas and outcomes.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3 - Demonstrate technical proficiency in at least one area of your field of creative practice.
Relates to: ULO1 - Communicate independent learning clearly and coherently in diverse modes relevant to your field of creative practice.
Relates to: ULO1 - Discern, critically analyse and synthesise knowledge in complex creative practice settings.
Relates to: ULO3
KK43 Bachelor of Creative Industries
- Demonstrate broad and coherent theoretical and practical knowledge required for creative enterprise, career development and interdisciplinary collaborations, supported by depth in at least one creative disciplinary area.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Demonstrate well-developed cognitive and ideation skills to identify, analyse and evaluate opportunities to address authentic complex problems.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, ULO3, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Demonstrate technical expertise to support skills and knowledge within the Creative Industries.
Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Communicate effectively in a range of forms across multiple media modes, for sharing and disseminating knowledge, skills and ideas, and collaborative practice and navigation of social networks.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Apply and adapt creative disciplinary knowledge and skills with agility in a range of industry, community and intercultural contexts.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, ULO4, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay - Embody social and ethical responsibilities and exhibit well-developed judgement with resilience, integrity, curiosity and responsibility.
Relates to: ULO4, Script Analysis, Character Profile & Outline, Screenplay