Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

Students should have taken either SEL2224 or SEL2226 or SEL2227 or SEL2228 to be able to take this module. However, if they have not taken these modules they may apply to the module leader for permission to take this module.

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

1. To prepare a file of work which consists of a self-contained theatre script.

2. To prepare a self-reflective essay.

Outline Of Syllabus

Over the course of one to one tutorials, small group work sessions and independent research and a final workshop students will develop a self-contained play, synopsis of the same and self-reflective essay. In small group work sessions students will explore playtexts, online theatre and live theatre (if available) and discuss this with other students in order to develop their understanding of contemporary theatre and present their findings to the tutor. In the one to one and small group work sessions they will reflect on drafts of their own creative work. In the final workshop they will listen to each other's work and offer critical feedback alongside their peers and tutor. The largest portion of the syllabus is taken up by independent research in which students will develop drafts of their plays and self-reflective essay.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

1. The student will acquire insight into the process of selecting and planning an extended creative project.
2. The student will acquire insight into the imaginative processes of writing at length.
3. The student will understand key technical aspects of script writing.
4. The student will expand their knowledge of a range of contemporary theatre.

Intended Skill Outcomes

1. The ability to create and develop a substantial body of script.
2. The ability to apply craft skills, techniques and methods to their own creative work.
3. The ability to sustain a self-directed project over time, to build on and develop work already underway, and to engage in a prolonged process of editing and revision.
4. The ability to read exemplar and other texts with attention to verbal and formal creativity.
5. The ability to assess and reflect upon their own creative work and the work of peers with constructive rigour in study groups, presentation and workshop.
6. The student will acquire cooperative skills required to write for theatre.
7. The ability to demonstrate engagement with the critical process in a self-reflective essay.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

All students attend the plenary session to be assigned study groups and learn about the structure and expectations for the module.

Each student must consult the module leader with an initial proposal, submitting an opening plan or sketch for comment and discussion.

The specific length of each supervision will vary from student to student depending on their needs, but the total length of supervision hours is listed above with the expectation that the number of supervisions will be approximately seven.

The field work to watch plays and student led discussion groups that follow play an important role in encouraging the students to see their work in the broader landscape of theatre and existing plays. The presentations of the 3 plays read do the same. This activity is also important because it requires students to work cooperatively with others. Theatre is a cooperative business and playwrights are expected to work with a broad range of other artists in the process of creating productions so this is vital for the students, especially those who plan to pursue a career in theatre.

The development workshop aims will vary depending on the needs of each student, where possible students may hear their work with professional/industry support.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The self-contained play, accompanying synopsis of the same and the self reflective essay will together evidence processes of drafting, principles of selection, the uses of influence, and playwriting craft techniques acquired throughout the module. The portfolio must include a bibliography of books read and plays read and performances attended or viewed as evidence of research.

The final mark will be a consideration of both the file of original work and the essay with the file of original work being the major factor and the self-reflective essay being the minor factor.

General Notes

N/A