STANDARD COMPETENCIES:

 

 1.   Identify and analyze the elements of dramatic literature.

 2.   Break down a play into its parts.

 3.   Outline the elements of a play.

 4.   Appraise the success with which the playwright has utilized the elements of dramatic literature to create a work of art.

 5.   Identify and examine the styles, genres and forms of dramatic literature.

 6.   Identify and examine various dramatic writing styles.

 7.   Identify and examine various dramatic genres.

 8.   Identify and examine various dramatic forms.

 9.   Compare and contrast specific playwriting styles, genres and forms.

 10.  Apply knowledge of history and development of dramatic writing and elements of dramatic structure to the creating of dramatic writing through exercises.

 11.  Experiment with dramatic structure and script mechanics.

 12.  Experiment with dramatic style, genre and form.

 13.  Apply specific creative writing exercises to playwriting.

 14.  Develop a unique individual approach to playwriting.

 15.  Write a play.

 16.  Imagine a story.

 17.  Outline plot.

 18.  Create characters.

 19.  Write dialogue.

 20.  Appraise the result.

 21.  Rewrite.

 22.  Demonstrate ability to participate in the staged reading and performance process as a playwright.

 23.  Dramatize play scripts created in the course.

 24.  Evaluate the outcome of the process.

 25.  Inventory market and development opportunities for new play scripts.

 26.  Identify local markets for new plays.

 27.  Identify national markets for new plays.

 TOPICAL OUTLINE:

 

 I.      Introduction to Dramatic Literature

         A.      Brief historical overview of development of drama as literature

         B.      Survey of styles, genres and form

 II.     Script Mechanics and Dramatic Structure

         A.      Script mechanics

         B.      Dramatic structure

 III.    Development of the Play Script

         A.      Approaches to playwriting

         B.      Creative writing exercises especially for playwriting

 IV.     Elements of Character, Plot, Dialogue, and Setting

         A.      Characterization

         B.      Plot and theme

         C.      Dialogue

         D.      Theatrical settings and environment

 V.      Staged Readings and Premiere Productions

         A.      Translating the play script in performance

         B.      Staged readings

         C.      Premiere productions

 VI.     Marketing the Play Script

         A.      Local markets

         B.      National markets

         C.      Contests, awards, and grants for playwriting