FLM 180 - Intro to Writing for TV

 
Description
As networks and distributors seek content to produce for television formats, more opportunities for new voices and new points of view are welcomed. This introductory class focuses on the fundamentals of writing for television by guiding students through the development of their own original narrative television series and execution of a pilot script. In addition to covering style and format, emphasis is given to story and structure documents, sales tools and marketability.

1. Identify similarities and differences between writing for television and writing for films.
2. Analyze narrative television formats with an emphasis on the dramatic series format.
3. Examine what makes characters and stories marketable and compelling.
4. Utilize the most commonly implemented types of stories and plot engines of episodic series.
5. Generate a treatment and outline for a pilot episode script.
6. Create detailed breakdowns of the major characters in a series.
7. Revise a draft incorporating critical feedback received.
8. Develop the narrative and character arcs of an entire season for a self-conceptualized series.

 Listed Topics

1. Episodic TV vs. feature films
2. Character development
3. Treatments and outlines
4. Story, plot and theme
5. Scenes and dialogue
6. Elements of a pilot
7. Teleplay format
8. Sell your series
9. The series bible

• Communication
• Critical Thinking & Problem Solving

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