Will introduce students to the Biblical basis for storytelling as an effective way to communicate. Both Old and New Testaments examples will be explored and compared. Oral cultures will be examined. The student will then be able to develop a theology of storytelling that is culturally appropriate.

Exploring the structural components of scriptwriting to include format, theme, character development, and writing techniques. Students will also critique and discuss published works and provide analysis and feedback of their fellow classmates’ scripts based on precepts and principles learned in the class.

Understanding the structure of every story is the first step every writer must take in order to be successful. This class will define and analyze the fundamental plot points of traditional linear structure: Exposition and Backstory; Inciting Incident and Conflict; Rising Action; Crisis; Climax; Falling Action and Resolution. Students will become competent and proficient in identifying these elements in all writing to include novel, play, and movie.

Theoretical and practical analysis of play scripts from a theatrical perspective. Emphasis is placed on critical analysis of structure, genre, theme, style, character, language, dramatic event, and point of view of the actor, director, critic, and audience. Develops beginner dramaturgy skills and hermeneutical approaches to reading scripts.

A good story is the foundation for any great media project. The script is the first step in the collaborate process that unites all the disciplines together. The script can be considered the blueprint that that is used to build the house. We will examine the three act structure with the two plot points that transition the acts. There are formulas that have been used in screenwriting since the advent of the camera. We will also study other accomplished screenwriters to learn how they honed their craft. Ultimately we will write our own project putting into practice what we have learned.

This course will provide students with knowledge of dramatic structure and experience in dramatic writing. It will involve the creation of several written scenes for the stage or screen. Students will spend all the course time involved in the creative process, including working with principles of dramatic structure to construct new and original skits or short films. Emphasis will be on the use of Fedder’s Four, a playwriting technique developed by Drama Therapist Norman J. Fedder.