Screenwriting 1
Modality: In Person
Lectures: Mondays and Wednesdays
10:30 AM - 11:45 AM
North Campus, Room 2147
Professor Agustin Gonzalez
Office: North Campus Room 2235
Best way to reach me: Agonza29@mdc.edu
*If you reach me with a question answered in the syllabus, I will reply with a link to the syllabus.
Office Hours
Mondays 12 PM - 3 PM (In-Person North or Remote)
Tuesday 5 PM - 8 PM (Remote Only)
Wednesday 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM (In-Person North or Remote)
Thursday 12 PM - 3 PM (In-Person Kendall or Remote)
Office hours help students seek clarification and support on assignments, discussions, lectures, and projects. Office hours are not, however, a substitute for missed classes. Though these are my official office hours, the remote environment affords me much additional flexibility throughout the week; if these hours do not work, please contact me, and I would be happy to accommodate you at a different time.
You can schedule an appointment using the following Calendly link: Schedule an appointment
I am here to help you and support you. Please talk to me should you have problems keeping up with the class.
Course Description and Competencies
A workshop-style introductory class covering narrative script writing for film and television. Students will learn to develop a short-format screenplay incorporating three-act story structure, script elements, and standard industry formatting.
Competency 1: The student will define Three Act Structure.
Competency 2: The student will develop dramatic elements in screenplays.
Competency 3: The student will identify industry-standard screenplay format.
Competency 4: The student will identify various responsibilities of a professional screenwriter.
Through the academic disciplines and co-curricular activities, MDC provides multiple, varied, and intentional learning experiences to facilitate the acquisition of fundamental knowledge and skills. MDC's Ten Learning Outcomes foster effective citizenship and life-long learning.
In addition to the competencies listed above, this class will require that you:
Learning Outcome 1: Communicate effectively using listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.
Learning Outcome 5: Demonstrate knowledge of diverse cultures, including global and historical perspectives.
Learning Outcome 9: Demonstrate an appreciation for aesthetics and creative activities.
Textbook
The Hollywood Standard by Christopher Riley
This book is a reference guide to screenplay format. You should buy it and keep it in your library, as it will be relevant well into the future..
Screenwriting Software
In this course, you'll be stepping into the world of screenwriting, and a key tool in that journey is having the right software. Fortunately, there are multiple free options available, and you can find some suggested choices at the following link: Screenwriting Software Options.
Why is Specific Software Necessary?
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Standardization Since the 1920s: The format for screenwriting has been standardized for nearly a century, allowing for seamless communication across the industry. The precision in formatting is essential, and any screenwriting software you select will help you achieve this.
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Avoid Common Word Processors: Though it may seem tempting, common word processors like Word or Pages aren't designed for screenwriting and can lead to formatting errors. Selecting a designated screenwriting software will set you up for success.
A Note About This Class:
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Focus on Formatting, Not Software Training: While I will teach you the critical elements of screenwriting format, understanding how to operate your chosen software will be your responsibility. This class's primary goal is to immerse you in the craft of screenwriting, not software training.
Technology
For this class, you are required to have a computer with an internet connection to access Canvas.
Attendance
Attendance is mandatory. This class is in person. We will meet weekly on campus for class twice a week.
Generally, absences in 3 or more classes result in a course failure.
Course Withdrawal
It is your responsibility to withdraw from the course. However, I reserve the right to withdraw students from the course if:
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They are absent more than three times before the last day to withdraw from courses with a “W” grade per the Academic Calendar
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They have not completed the majority of the required work before before the last day to withdraw from courses with a “W” grade per the Academic Calendar
Students who meet the above criteria will receive an email stating that they will be withdrawn from the course.
Academic Dishonesty
Academic dishonesty will not be tolerated. If students are suspected of classroom cheating, plagiarism, or otherwise misrepresenting their work, they will be subject to procedural due process as laid out in the Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook.
Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, the following:
• cheating on an examination;
• receiving help from others in work to be submitted, if contrary to the stated rules of the course;
• plagiarizing; that is, the taking and claiming as one's own the ideas, writings, or work of another, without citing the sources;
• submitting work from another course unless permitted by the instructor;
• stealing examinations or course materials;
• falsifying records;
• assisting anyone to do any of the above.
Disability Statement
Students who have a disability that might affect their performance in the class are encouraged to contact Access Services in confidence as soon as possible. The office will aid in appropriate accommodations for the student. This is in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Please inform me during the first week of classes if you need special accommodations due to a disability that might otherwise affect your performance in our class.
Success In This Class
Be Present in Class:
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Importance: As there is no textbook for this course, your attendance in class is vital. Assignments and instructions will be detailed in class, making presence crucial to your understanding.
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Impact: Absences could lead to missed information, affecting your ability to follow along as the course progresses.
Complete All Assignments:
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Continuity: Each assignment in this course builds on the last. Completing all tasks ensures that you maintain an understanding of the evolving concepts.
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Growth: Regular practice through these assignments cultivates your skills, preparing you for subsequent tasks.
Proofread Your Assignments:
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Professionalism: This is a creative writing course, and your work will be read by your peers. It's a reflection of your creative output, so take the time to proofread and refine.
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Respect: Your work is your voice in this class. Give it the care and attention it deserves.
Actively Participate in Workshop Discussions:
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Engagement: Your participation is not just a grading criterion; it's a practical application of the skills you are learning.
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Collaboration: Engaging in discussions enhances the collective learning experience, enriching your understanding and that of your classmates.
Assignment Philosophy
The assignments for this semester are designed to be accessible but will demand consistency and effort. Your success in the highly competitive entertainment industry, where over 2 million Visual & Performing Arts graduates emerge annually in the United States, depends on these principles.
Understanding the Competition:
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Among these graduates, around 60,000 specifically pursue degrees in Film, with many more in hybrid Film & Television programs.
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Your education is an integral part of your preparation for this competitive landscape.
Keys to Success in the Field:
Over your time as a student in this program, you will need to:
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Develop High Literacy: This includes both written and verbal skills in the medium.
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Appreciate All Movies: Cultivate a broad and deep understanding of the genre.
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Build Industry Friendships: Network with peers and professionals for future collaboration.
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Cultivate Impeccable Work Ethic: Be diligent and committed in all endeavors.
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Establish a Reliable Reputation: Prove yourself as someone who consistently delivers quality work.
These foundational qualities will enable you to compete in the industry. While they may not guarantee success, they will pave the way for your pursuit of it.
Course Expectations and Policies:
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No Late Work: Assignments must be submitted on time.
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No Sloppiness: Your work should reflect the standards of the industry.
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No Plagiarism: Originality and integrity are paramount.
I view your work as a reflection of how you're building these essential skills, and as a testament to your ambition for success. I expect the best from you, and I'm here to support you. If life's challenges interfere with your work, please reach out so we can find a way to accommodate your situation.
Assignment Basics
In this class, each assignment serves as an exercise to develop and practice the specific skills we will cover. As we progress through the term, you are expected to build upon and integrate the previous skills learned. The culmination of these exercises will be your final screenplay, a comprehensive project that will allow you to showcase all that you've learned throughout the course.
Assignment Submission Guidelines:
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File Format: All assignments must be submitted on Canvas in PDF format only. This standardized format facilitates grading and ensures consistency in sharing your work.
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Screenplay Format: When required, assignments must adhere to the appropriate screenplay formatting. This ensures alignment with industry standards and helps you develop professional writing practices.
Final Screenplay: At the end of the semester, your mastery of the skills taught will be demonstrated in a final screenplay. This project will be a synthesis of all the techniques, concepts, and practices introduced throughout the course.
Adhering to these guidelines and actively engaging in each exercise will enable you to progressively hone your screenwriting skills. By following the course structure, you'll be well-prepared to craft a compelling screenplay as your final project, reflecting your growth and readiness for professional writing in the industry.
Assignment # 1: Read a Script
This semester, our primary text will be the screenplay "Inception" by Christopher Nolan, and we will refer to it throughout the term as a key example. You can access the screenplay on CANVAS.
Assignment Requirements:
1. Read the Script: Engage with the entire script to familiarize yourself with its content.
2. Make Notations: As you read, identify and make notes of elements that are unclear to you. Be sure to note the specific pages so that we can discuss them in class.
The class discussions will focus specifically on the script and its function rather than the movie itself. This will help you get acquainted with the screenplay format and understand how screenplays communicate ideas.
The purpose of this assignment is to enhance your understanding of the screenwriting format and how it is used to convey complex concepts. By studying this renowned screenplay, you will gain valuable insights into the mechanics of storytelling in the film industry.
Assignment # 2: A Joke... Into Script
After our reading and discussion of Inception, we'll delve into screenplay formatting over the next few weeks. The culmination of this exploration will be a unique and creative assignment: adapting a joke into a screenplay.
Here are the key guidelines for this task:
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Length: Your screenplay must be no longer than 3 pages.
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Content: Feel free to base your screenplay on any joke you like, but I advise against using racist, sexist, of phobic jokes. While I am generally open-minded and encourage creative freedom, remember that your work reflects who you are. If anything within your content gives me cause for concern, I'll have to address it.
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Format: Your assignment must follow the appropriate screenplay format and be submitted as a PDF file on Blackboard.
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Grading: The focus here is on mastery of format. Each formatting mistake will result in a 4% deduction from your grade.
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Redo Opportunity: If you're not satisfied with your grade, you may have the chance to redo the assignment for a higher score. Note that this opportunity will only be extended to students who submitted the original assignment on time.
Assignment # 3: A Picture... Into Script
As we master the basics of screenplay format, our next step will be to delve into the language of screenwriting. Unlike other forms of writing, screenplays communicate through an active, visual voice. This means that the words on the page must vividly convey what will happen on the screen. It's a challenge that requires both an understanding of fundamental grammar rules and a willingness to practice.
Assignment: Visual Storytelling Without Dialogue
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Task: Choose a picture or painting that inspires you, and translate it into a 1-page scene or various scenes. Your scene(s) must not include any dialogue, only action.
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Grading Criteria: Your work will be assessed based on:
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Screenplay Format
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Use of Visual Language
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Spelling and Grammar
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Redo Opportunity: If you're dissatisfied with your grade, you may have the chance to redo the assignment. Note that this opportunity is only available to those who submitted the original assignment on time.
This assignment encourages you to think visually, focusing on the action and imagery without relying on dialogue. It's a challenge that's sure to stretch your creative muscles and deepen your understanding of what makes a screenplay truly engaging.
Assignment # 4: The Final Screenplay
As a culmination of these lessons, you'll have the opportunity to bring everything together by writing a short screenplay of your own:
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Subject: The choice of subject is entirely up to you, with the understanding that the same content caveats mentioned earlier apply here as well.
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Length: Your screenplay should be between 5 to 7 pages long.
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Collaborative Process: Recognizing the complexity of this task, we'll approach it in stages, working together as a class to support and refine your ideas.
This assignment represents a significant milestone in our course. It's an opportunity for you to synthesize everything you've learned, to experiment with creative ideas, and to practice critical skills.
Stage # 1: Logline
As we embark on the process of crafting a short screenplay, the first step is to conceptualize and articulate the essence of your story. This is where the logline comes into play.
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What is a Logline? A logline is a single sentence that describes the core action of the scene. It captures the main concept and sets the stage for what's to come.
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Options: If you're struggling to decide between ideas, feel free to submit two loglines. We'll discuss these in class, and it might help you clarify your vision.
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Commitment: Once you've settled on an idea, you'll need to commit to it. The creative process often involves solving problems and embracing challenges. Committing to your idea will allow you to delve deeply into it and explore its potential.
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Grading: This particular assignment is graded solely on completion. The goal here is to stimulate thought and provide a firm foundation for your screenplay.
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Discussion: We'll spend a day or two in class discussing your loglines. This collaboration is an essential part of the learning process, and it will provide valuable feedback and insights.
Stage # 2: Outline
Building on the foundation laid with your logline, the next step in your screenwriting is to create a detailed outline of your story. This outline will consist of distinct elements, each encapsulated in a single sentence.
Story Elements:
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First Turning Point:
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Event:
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Reaction:
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Second Turning Point:
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Event:
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Reaction:
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Climax:
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Resolution:
Explanation: These terms may be new to you, but don't worry! Over the previous week, we will have explained these concepts in detail. They will help guide the structure and flow of your screenplay, ensuring that you have a clear and compelling narrative.
Discussion: We'll dedicate a day or two in class to discuss your outlines. Open dialogue and constructive feedback will further refine your ideas.
Grading: Like the logline, this assignment is graded exclusively on completion. The focus is on understanding and application rather than strict assessment.
This assignment represents a critical stage in your development. It will allow you to explore the dynamics of your story, flesh out the key events, and establish a coherent narrative arc. By committing your ideas to paper in this structured way, you'll be setting the stage for a successful and engaging screenplay.
Stage # 3: First Page
With your outline in hand, it's time to start writing your script. The first page is a vital piece of your story; it sets the tone and establishes key elements that will unfold throughout your screenplay.
Objectives:
Your first page will be assessed based on the following criteria:
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Problem: Introducing the central conflict or issue.
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Set-Up: Laying the groundwork for your story.
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Correct Format: Adhering to the appropriate screenplay format.
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Proper Spelling and Grammar: Ensuring clarity and professionalism.
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Visual Writing: Utilizing descriptive, visual language to engage the reader.
Discussion:
We will dedicate a day or two in class to discuss your first pages. Your peers and I will provide feedback, insights, and guidance to ensure that you are on track to tell your story within the 7-page limit.
Stage # 4: First Draft
After focusing on the first page and receiving ongoing feedback on the direction of your story, it's time to complete your first full draft. This draft represents a significant milestone in your writing process, as it's the first opportunity for your classmates to read your script and provide insights.
Objectives:
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Complete Your First Draft: Utilize the feedback received so far to create a cohesive and engaging story.
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Prepare for Speed Reading: Your draft will be the basis for a speed reading activity, enabling feedback from your peers.
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Participate Actively: Your grade will depend on your attendance and active participation in the speed read.
Submission Requirements:
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Digital Submission: Turn in your draft as a PDF file on Blackboard.
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Physical Submission: Bring a paper copy of your draft to class on the day of the speed read.
Assessment:
This assignment will be graded solely on your attendance and participation in the speed reading activity. Your commitment to this part of the process is essential to improving your script.
Stage # 5: Second Draft
Following the speed reading activity and the subsequent revisions based on feedback, the second draft of your screenplay is the next step. This draft is essential, as it will form a substantial part of your grade for the course.
Objectives:
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Incorporate Feedback: Use insights from the speed reading activity to refine and enhance your screenplay.
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Align with Expectations: Be aware of the specific rubric and expectations that will be discussed in class closer to the due date.
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Present a Polished Draft: This draft must reflect your best work and understanding of screenplay format.
Assessment:
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Grading Basis: The second draft will contribute to a large portion of your grade.
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Rubric: The specific rubric and grading criteria will be provided and discussed in class before the assignment due date.
Your second draft represents a culmination of your efforts, insights, and growth through the course. It must reflect a clear understanding of the screenplay's format, content, and storytelling techniques.
Stage # 6: Workshop
The last month of the class will be dedicated to a workshop format where students will read, discuss, and critique each other's scripts. The focus is on collaborative improvement and peer feedback, guided by the instructor.
Responsibilities:
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Reading and Preparation: Students must read the assigned scripts before each class meeting and be prepared to discuss and help improve the work.
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Active Participation: Engage in constructive dialogue and provide insightful comments on the scripts being discussed.
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Attendance: Adhere to the workshop schedule, including the specific day your script is being discussed.
Grading:
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Pass/Fail System: Participation in discussing each script will be graded on a pass/fail basis.
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Overall Participation Grade: The final participation grade will be the average of all the scripts discussed (e.g., 20/20 or 100%).
Strict Policies:
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Absence on Your Script's Day: If you're absent on the day your script is scheduled for feedback, you will fail the second draft assignment.
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General Absence During Workshop: Failing participation for that workshop day.
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Lateness During Workshop: Failing participation on the scripts not discussed due to tardiness.
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Communication: Notify the instructor if you will be absent on any workshop days to reschedule appropriately.
Stage # 7: Final Draft
Grading Criteria:
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Similarity to Second Draft: The grading will be based on the same criteria used for the second draft.
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Implementation of Feedback: Your ability to apply and incorporate the feedback given during the workshops will be considered.
Feedback and Return:
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Notes: Additional notes will be provided on the scripts to further guide improvements or to highlight achievements.
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Method of Return: The scripts, along with the notes, will be returned to students via email.
The final draft represents the culmination of the learning process throughout the semester. It should reflect the growth, understanding, and mastery of screenplay writing, taking into consideration all lessons, exercises, and feedback received. It is an opportunity to showcase creativity, adherence to format, and responsiveness to constructive criticism.
On my various syllabi, you will find pictures and trailers for the films that defined my love of cinema. Hidden Figures (2016) by Theodore Melfi has one of the finest screenplays I have ever read. It layers in three beautifully crafted throughlines with incredible efficiency. It is hard enough to tell one story and have that feel complete. Three is another matter altogether. It is a beautifully engineered piece of writing that all aspiring writers should read.
Important Dates
Because this class involves a lot of discussions and unpredictability, I will not commit to a specific, day-by-day account of the class. Instead, I am providing a list of deadlines and important dates that you should include in your calendar.
August 26 - Introduction to the course
September 2 - Labor Day. No Class
September 4 - May/December discussion
September 16 - Joke into script due
September 25 - Picture into script due
October 16 - Logline due (By Class Start)
October 21 - Outline due (By Class Start)
October 28 - First page due (By Class Start)
November 4- First draft due/speed read (By Class Start)
November 13 - Second draft due
November 18 - December 4 - Workshop
December 9 - Third draft due
Grading
Joke into script 5%
Picture into script 5%
Logline 5%
Outline 5%
First Page 5%
First Draft/Speed Read 5%
Second Draft 24%
Third Draft 24%
Workshop Participation 20%
Attendance 2%
Resources
Library: Nine libraries and several statewide resources comprise the Learning Resources at Miami Dade College, providing a stimulating learning environment that enhances the classroom experience through various services such as in-person tutoring, information literacy instruction, and informative workshops. Link to Library Website
Virtual Tutoring: Learning Resources offers students and faculty a wide array of supplemental assistance to ensure academic success Link to Virtual Tutoring.
Single Stop: Single Stop offers students a wide array of services, including public benefits screening, financial coaching, individual counseling, tax preparation, access to a food pantry, and various other services. All of our services are free to Miami Dade College students and their immediate family members. Link to Single Stop Website.
Mental Health Counseling: Counselors are available on campus during the day and after-hours throughout the week, including Saturdays. Students may receive up to 10 free hour-long sessions where they can speak confidentially with a licensed counselor. Sessions during the day may be held in person (on campus), by phone, or virtually. When filling out the form, please select either daytime or after-hours counseling. Link to Mental Health Counseling Website.
SEDT Academic Advisors: Even as I am available to advise you on classes, SEDT offers in-depth academic planning through our two counselors.
James Van Voris: jvanvori@mdc.edu
He can be reached at 305-237-1696