Los Angeles Mission College

Transcription

1 Instructor: Professor John Huynh Telephone: Office: LRC 131 Los Angeles Mission College Multimedia Story, Script & Screen SYLLABUS Section: 0552 Saturday 9AM 12:10PM Classroom: Kennedy High School, Room B huynhhd@lamission.edu Office Hours: Mondays: 10:00 A.M. 1:05 P.M., Thursdays: 2:00 P.M. 4:30 P.M. Text: There will be regular updates and information on the class web page and these will be your required texts for the class. Recommended Text (OPTIONAL): Writing Short Films: Structure and Content for Screenwriters by Linda Cowgill; Creating Unforgettable Characters by Linda Seger Los Angeles Mission College - Mission Statement Los Angeles Mission College is committed to the success of our students. The College provides accessible, affordable, high-quality learning opportunities in a culturally and intellectually supportive environment by... Ensuring that students successfully transfer to four-year institutions, prepare for successful careers in the workplace, and improve their basic skills; Encouraging students to become critical thinkers and lifelong learners; Providing services and programs that improve the lives of the diverse communities we serve. Course Description Story, Script & Screen is a fundamental course on creative writing and scripting basics. the course structure includes lectures; short and feature film screenings; writing assignments; in-class group discussions and critique. Course Student Learning Outcomes Content Knowledge: Upon successful completion of this course, the student will: 1.Analyze and discuss structural elements of short film narratives. 2.Employ strategies for balancing action and dialogue lines, and create multidimensional characters through action and dialogue. Assessment 1. Demonstrate proper formatting for screenplays 2. The script adheres to three-act structure and demonstrates proper use of narrative script elements 3.The project can be evaluated by its ability to clearly communicate an idea. MM600 Spring 2016 Syllabus Page 1

2 4. The student will write and rewrite multiple drafts of an original screenplay using proper script and story techniques. Teaching Methods Teaching methods include readings, demonstrations and guided instruction in use of equipment and computer technique. But may also include: 1. Videos 2. Group critiques to analyze completed assignments and works in progress 3.Internet research Canvas The course will have a supplemental website which will have available notes, announcements, assignments, viewable grades, etc. Students must sign up for an account on the CANVAS website; you will submit assignments through this portal. INSTRUCTIONS (If you already have a Canvas account, please skip to step #6): If students have never created a Canvas website, please follow these steps: 1. On a web browser, go to: 2. Click on the ribbon item: Need a Canvas account? Click here it s free 3. Choose I m a student MM600 Spring 2016 Syllabus Page 2

3 4. Fill in the following information: Join Code: WK66YA Full Name: Please list your real first and last name (No aliases or fake names this will be used so I can grade your assignments and know it s you). **VERY IMPORTANT User Name: Your address, which you check frequently Password: A password that you will always remember 5. Click Start Learning and you will now be enrolled. 6. If you already have a CANVAS account, please enroll by going to this website: Simply add the course and you should be enrolled. Student Evaluation This class is comprised primarily of classroom instruction reinforced by in-class (Lab) and outof-class (Homework and Online) exercises, online research & discussion, and multiple courselong, in-depth projects, all of which will count towards your final grade. There are also two exams, which cover the material presented during the class periods preceding the exam. Finally, participation (both in-class and online) and student professional conduct are evaluated and contribute to your final grade. Grading Policy Grading is assessed on a point scale, and expressed as a letter grade % = A % = B % = C % = D 0-59 % = F Up to 1000 points can be earned for the semester. Students earn points in the following manner: Points Possible Percentage Description Due Date 50 5% Participation N/A 50 5% Analyze four thematic ideas February % 2 Treatments / Story Structures #1 March % Character Backstory March % Outline/ Purpose #1 March % Screenplay A April % Midterm Exam April % Coverage #1 April 16 MM600 Spring 2016 Syllabus Page 3

4 100 10% Screenplay A Draft 2 April % 2 Treatments / Story Structures #2 May % Screenplay B June % Final Exam June 4 TOTAL (1000 points) 100% Course Detailed Outcomes 1. Understand and master screenplay format 2. Develop a fully realized story structure outline 3. Understand proper screenwriting terms and techniques 4. Focus on thematic elements and the use of dialogue 5. Write one (1) five-page screenplay 6. Write a script coverage analysis 7. Write one (1) ten-page screenplay 8. Rewrite one (1) ten-page screenplay Course Content and Scope Emphasize the learning and application of the process and techniques of screenwriting in order to create a short narrative film script. Obtain a deeper understanding of story structure and creating characters through action and dialogue. Course Time Expectations As a technical course, students should expect to spend 4-10 hours per week of time outside of class working on online material, projects, and exercises assigned for class. The more time you spend working on this material - the more you are going to comprehend and the more successful you may be. Ask Questions We will be covering a lot of information in a short time. If you are confused, lost, need clarification, etc. PLEASE ASK QUESTIONS in class. Chances are your fellow students will also benefit from the answers. Also, you can always ask questions via or find me between classes or during my office hours. Attendance and Participation Class attendance is an important part of the course experience. Most of the course content is only available by attending class. You are responsible for obtaining any notes that you missed during an absence, either from a classmate or from the Canvas site. Participation in class discussions, labs, and student professionalism are all factored into your classroom grade. Missing a few classes is going to happen - missing classes in a row is going to be difficult for the student to catch up. The lessons are layered so one topic leads to the next. If you must miss a class, please notify me by , prior to class so arrangements can be made. MM600 Spring 2016 Syllabus Page 4

5 In Class Policies Cell phones must be turned to silent mode during class. If a call must be answered, take the call outside of the classroom. While class is happening, Lab workstations should only be used for class work However, I realize Web browsing, , Tweeting, Facebooking, Snapchatting game play, instant messaging and other non-class related computer activities are going to happen BUT! these activities should not distract you, your neighbors, or the instructor. I will not go over material again if I find the student was not paying attention. No food or open-top drinks are allowed in the computer labs. Accommodation Statement for Students with Disabilities LAMC students with verified disabilities who are requesting academic accommodations should use the following procedure: 1. Obtain documentation of your disability from a licensed professional. You may contact DSPS to request a Disability Verification Form. 2. Make an appointment to meet with a DSPS Specialist to review your documentation and discuss reasonable accommodations. To schedule a meeting, please call DSPS at (818) Bring your disability documentation to your DSPS appointment. The DSPS office is located in room 1018 of the Instructional Building. 4. Each semester, reach written accommodation agreement with DSPS Specialist and your instructor. Please complete this process in a timely manner to allow adequate time to provide accommodation. Required Materials Students will need to provide the following materials: 1.Pen / Paper or Notebook 2.Flash memory drive: 1 GB will suffice 3.Access to a computer with a screen writing program such as CELTX or FINAL DRAFT or to a computer with the capability to use free web-based script-writing programs. Class Schedule DATE Feb. 20 LECTURE Introduction to the course; What is a script? What is a theme? What is drama? Using Canvas READINGS, TESTS & ASSIGNMENTS DUE Download Story Structure Worksheet Read Academy Screenplay Format guide in class MM600 Spring 2016 Syllabus Page 5

6 DATE Feb. 27 Mar. 5 Mar. 12 LECTURE Discuss Treatment Three act structure Visual writing Discuss Formatting Formatting Exercise Discuss two story structures in class Creating an interesting character Formatting Exercise Discuss Outlining Formatting Exercise Writing Dialogue READINGS, TESTS & ASSIGNMENTS DUE Four Thematic Ideas analysis due 2 Story structure worksheets/ Treatments due Character backstory due Mar. 19 Discuss outlines in class Outline due in class Dialogue exercise Mar. 26 NO CLASS Spring Break No assignment due April 2 Present scripts in class Screenplay A due in class April 9 Discuss the coverage / analysis April 9 Midterm Exam April 16 Present coverage/ analysis Coverage due April 23 Discuss rewriting Work on Draft #2 of Script B April 30 Present scripts in class Screenplay A Draft #2 due in class May 7 Evaluating structure of a longer script Write Story Structure for ten page script May 14 Present Two story structures/ Treatments in class May 21 Write script B - Write Script B 2 Story structure worksheets/ Treatments due for Script B May 28 No class Memorial Day Weekend MM600 Spring 2016 Syllabus Page 6

7 DATE LECTURE READINGS, TESTS & ASSIGNMENTS DUE June 4 Final Exam Final Exam & Screenplay B due in class *Important Dates February 12-15, President s Day (College CLOSED) February 19, Deadline to ADD Full Term (16-Week) Classes - Last Day to process AUDIT add request February 21, Last Day to DROP a class ON-LINE ONLY without receiving W and with a refund - Last Day to DROP classes without incurring fees or with a refund. ON-LINE ONLY March 11, 2016 Spring 2016 Deadline to file for Pass/ No Pass Grade March 31, Cesar Chavez Birthday (College CLOSED) April 2 April 8, Spring Break 2016 April 15, Last Day to file a petition for GRADUATION for Spring 2016 May 8, Last day to DROP a class with a W a letter grade is required after this date forward ON-LINE ONLY May 29, Spring 2016 CLASSES END May 31, 2016 June 6, Spring 2016 FINAL EXAMS The Assignments Participation 50 Points (5%) Students are expected to arrive on time and stay for the duration of the class. There will be some occasions where class may end early to allow editing or production work, but that will be at the instructor s discretion and will be announced in advance. Participation is more than just showing up. It includes engagement in the class discussion (we re going to be talking about movies who doesn t have an opinion about movies?), working with your classmates in a professional and collaborative manner, and getting involved in the class demonstrations (touch the equipment and learn the equipment for YOUR benefit). Also, there will be in-class writing exercises, which will be submitted or discussed. While not directly related to your grade, these will be graded towards your participation in the class. Analyze Four Thematic Ideas 50 Points (5%) Each student will write a brief one sentence analysis of four feature films and discuss the theme (the underlying meaning) of the films. Two Treatments / Story Structures 50 Points (5%) Each student will submit TWO (2) separate treatments / Story structure worksheets for two original TEN PAGE screenplay ideas that will be written as SCREENPLAY A during the course. Character Backstory 50 Points (5%) Students will write a detailed historical back story for the protagonist of SCREENPLAY A in order to better understand the character s motivation and actions. Outline/ Purpose 50 Points (5%) Each student will outline each scene and explain its purpose for SCREENPLAY A. Screenplay A - Draft #1 100 Points (10%) Students will submit a TEN PAGE SCREENPLAY written in Master Scene Format. Students will attach the Story Structure worksheet to the back of the screenplay. MM600 Spring 2016 Syllabus Page 7

8 Midterm Exam 100 Points (10%) Summary exam of material presented from lecture, textbook and lab exercises presented in the first portion of the course. Students will be given a series of multiple choice and true/false questions. Coverage Analysis 100 Points (10%) Students will write an analysis of two screenplays written by their classmates. The coverage analysis will be written in proper coverage format and will thoroughly analyze the script. Screenplay A - Draft #2 100 Points (10%) Students will submit a FIVE-PAGE SCREENPLAY written in Master Scene Format. Students will attach the Story Structure worksheet to the back of the screenplay. The script must be a rewritten draft of SCREENPLAY A - DRAFT #1. There must be at least 40% difference between the two drafts. Two Treatments / Story Structures 50 Points (5%) Each student will submit TWO (2) separate treatments / Story structure worksheets for two original FIFTEEN PAGE screenplay ideas that will be written as SCREENPLAY B during the course. Screenplay B 150 Points (15%) Students will submit a TWELVE to FIFTEEN-PAGE SCREENPLAY written in Master Scene Format. Students will attach the Story Structure worksheet to the back of the screenplay. Final Exam 150 Points(15%) The final exam for the lecture portion will be a comprehensive test of material from lecture, text, exercises presented in the course. Portion of the exam will include a transcription section where a student is given a prose story and must convert it into a screenplay. General Course Rules 1. Do not eat or drink in class. This is especially important because of the amount of electrical equipment in the studio. Containers may not be placed on the desks. 2. If you must answer a phone call or text, please try to leave the room to do so. 3. The instructor may drop a student after 3 absences. 4. Do not be tardy. I would be shortchanging the entire class if I did not begin promptly. By the same token, do not expect me to backtrack and explain things if you are late. 5. All written assignments must be typed or computer-printed. Hand-written assignments will not be accepted. 6. Unless otherwise noted in the syllabus, readings and assignments are due on the first class session of the week. 7. Assignments are due at the beginning of class. Late assignments may be accepted at my discretion, but only for less than a week after the due date, and for 25% less of the grade otherwise received. One week after the due date late assignments will not be accepted at all. 8. Assigned readings must be completed on time; I expect everyone to walk in to the room prepared, just as students expect the professor to, by having read the material before lecture. MM600 Spring 2016 Syllabus Page 8

9 9. No Make-up exams will be given after the posted date. Early exams will be given to students who are unable to take the exam on the posted date. All requests to take exams early must be submitted via to the instructor. 10. There will be many in-class writing exercises. You will submit these towards your participation grade. 11. This class is designed to be an expression of your creativity. However, we will be reading scripts out loud in class and sometimes, there may be language. You are free to censor it, if needed, but please consult with me at your discretion, if it is an issue. On the flip side, the majority of successful films annually are rated PG-13. If we could stay in that area, that d be great, but please feel free to express yourself and your ideas. Standards of Student Conduct and Disciplinary Action For more detailed information, please refer to pages in the College catalog. Some violations of the Standards of Student Conduct are as follows (for a full list, please refer to pages in the College catalog): Willful Disobedience: Willful disobedience to directions of college officials acting in the performance of their duties Violation of College Rules and Regulation: Violations of college rules and regulations, including those concerning student organizations, the use of college facilities, or the time, place, and manner of public expression or distribution of materials Dishonesty: Dishonesty, such as cheating, or knowingly furnishing false information to colleges Unauthorized Entry: Unauthorized entry to or use of the college facilities College Documents: Forgery, alteration, or misuse of college documents, records, or identification Disruption of Classes or College Activities: Obstruction or disruption of classes, administration, disciplinary procedures, or authorized college activities Theft of or Damage to Property: Theft of or damage to property belonging to the college, a member of the college community or a campus visitor Interference with Peace of College: The malicious or willful disturbance of the peace or quiet of any of the Los Angeles Community Colleges by loud or unusual noise, or any threat, challenge to fight, fight, or violation of any rules of conduct as set forth in this Article. How You Can Succeed in the Course 1. Attend class -- Choose to attend all class periods on time and don t leave early. If you are absent on a day, try to work with a partner to catch up. Also, knowledge in any technology based class is extremely cumulative. What you miss one day will continue to hurt you throughout the rest of the course. 2. Pay attention -- Pay attention in class, participate in class, and ask questions MM600 Spring 2016 Syllabus Page 9

10 3. Do all lab/ homework -- Do or attempt all homework, not for the sake of just doing it, but to try to understand the concepts, learning them in the process. Practice makes perfect applies not only to music and sports, but also in learning. Be sure to schedule sufficient time to complete your assigned tasks before the next class meeting. 4. Get help -- Know how to get help if you need it. Consult with the instructor via . Or look online for further information -- THAT MEANS RESEARCH. Use the LAB - A LOT! 5. Keep up with all the work -- Getting behind will snowball on you very rapidly. Do your lab practice homework as much as you can -- not just when we meet for class. 6. Do something everyday -- Don t leave all the work until the weekend. It is almost impossible to make a successful film with no prep work. Think of all the films made and how much work is spent in development before even filming one frame of the film. 7. If there is a text - READ the text -- Reading about software should be done slowly and carefully... it doesn t read like a novel or a magazine. It is important that you learn the language of technology; you cannot succeed in ANY course without learning to express yourself in that language. Only by reading your text carefully and regularly can you learn it. 8. Get organized and learn to take good notes Find other students to work with -- Group work is very productive and a great skill to have in the film industry. You will learn from each other and share ideas, thoughts, concepts, etc. 10. Strive for true understanding of the material, not just memorizing -- Understanding greatly enhances your ability to comprehend later material. Memory is unreliable and temporary. Understanding is intense, never lost... and exciting! 11. Ask questions I am here to help you succeed. Ask questions to me, to yourself and also, seek answers. Sometimes my answer is not the only way to write something find the way that is best for you. But, be willing to explore and ask questions. What you can expect from me as a teacher 1. I am here to help you succeed... But YOU MUST WANT TO SUCCEED. I will do what I can to give you guidance and support as an instructor, but you must be willing to do the work. 2. I will critique your work and try to do so in an honest and constructive manner. So please do not see this as a reflection of you as a person, but part of my job is to challenge you to do your best. I am not always right, but that is an important part of your learning as an artist. You will sometimes have to make the best choice for your work. But know that when I critique, I am doing it to try to build your project... I am not doing it to tear down your work. So, be open and listen to the critique, just to think about it. It doesn t mean I m right, but it will at least present another perspective. 3. There will be challenges and obstacles. Part of my job is to make sure you see those challenges and obstacles. I may not be able to help you to solve those challenges and problems, but you must be willing to be able to see those problems in order to solve them. 4. I like to answer your questions. I mean that. You can do it in class, in person, or if you want to ask privately via , do that. I check my every day and will try to get back with you as soon as possible. But don t be afraid to ask the question. Better to bruise your ego than to break a camera. MM600 Spring 2016 Syllabus Page 10