First Draft Doctor Scriptwriting Training Course in Writing for Television
The First Draft Doctor
Scriptwriting Training Courses came about through a simple revelation: having
script read almost 300 client scripts, a large number of simple, but fundamentally
damaging, mistakes were apparent in almost every script I read. These mistakes
led to numerous rewrites for the writer - and countless hours of extra, wasted,
writing time (not to mention the expense of re-submitting to have the script
read once more). My idea was to remedy these basic mistakes from the outset
and 'fast-track' the scriptwriting process. Subsequent rewriting would then
be free to concentrate on polishing the draft to help its chances in the submission
process, rather than correcting basic scriptwriting mistakes.
The course is designed to be studied in the home and its modular nature makes
it perfect for 'distance learning' in this way. It is based over a 20 week timeframe,
however, the course can be completed over a shorter or longer timeframe - whichever
suits the student's particular needs. A strong practical element has been introduced
to all the courses which means you will be writing from the outset - and your
work will be scrutinised to aid learning.
Each week, you will be sent a training module (online by email attachment (.PDF
or MS Word format) or by post by prior arrangement) which contains specific
topic information and a practical assignment to complete - some modules are
designed to cover a two or three week period. Practical assignments should be
completed and returned for marking before receiving the following topic module.
However, the course timeframe is open to the individual student's needs, hence
practical assignments can be completed over a matter of weeks if necessary.
Students will be encouraged to devise a script idea which can be written alongside
the course to apply scriptwriting information and techniques as they are learned.
Several current students have chosen to write sample scripts for specific television
series (such as BBC's Doctors, and Eastenders) and will hopefully submit the
finished drafts to the relevant producers for their consideration.
Course content is as follows:
Writing for Television Modules
Television genres and conventions - overview
Introduction to formats: single drama, series, serials, sitcom, adaptations,
and documentary
The role of the television scriptwriter
Script format - industry standard layout, freeware templates, professional software
Television script structure - act structure, taglines, teasers and prologues
etc.
Television script themes - leit motifs, visuals, and how to create the emotional
hook
Television characters - character types, dynamic personalities, delineation
Television dialogue - what makes it different from reality and film, how to
write it
Selling your script - finding agents and producers
Writing for established productions - which ones, where to find information,
what they expect
Course summary - questions, final student assessment
Modules are subject to change
to include up-to-date information.
Payment can be paid in full or by installment (installment payments are spread
over the course duration):
The First Draft Doctor Scriptwriting Training Course in Writing for
Television - £199 UK Sterling (or 4 x £50 UK - every fifth week)
All courses are 'individual-based' so can start at any time suitable to the student.
If you should like to enrol
now, please send your full payment, or first installment (£50 UK Sterling),
to:
The First Draft Doctor
11 Byan Close
Threemilestone
Truro
Cornwall
TR11 3BZ
Cheques should be made to: Ascent New Media Design
Please use the online booking form for credit
card payments