Scripting Basics: Introduction

Lesson Overview

Media: Video (6 minutes)

Seat Time: 3 Classes | 150 minutes teaching

Goal:

To demonstrate a general understanding of how a script is created.

Description:

This lesson introduces students to scriptwriting, including basic terminology and the script development process. Students will explore scriptwriting phases and an overview of resources available when developing a script.

Objectives:

1. To define various scriptwriting terminology.

2. To describe the steps for developing a script.

3. To identify resources used for developing a script and preparing for production.

Class 1

Class Overview:

Scripting Basics: Introduction Video

Action Plan

Vocabulary Handout

Key Concepts

Script Treatment Practice Activity

Essential Questions:

1. What are the key steps involved in creating a script?

2. Which resources are used when developing a script and preparing for production?

Step 1: Bell Ringer:

· Divide students into groups of three to brainstorm ideas for a story based on the following prompt. Their story should include characters, conflict, setting and theme. Lead each group to discuss their work with the class.

- A mysterious package arrives on the doorstep.

Step 2: Distribute the Action Plan, Vocabulary Handout and Key Concepts.

· The Action Plan lays out a list of tasks for students to complete during the lesson.

· The Vocabulary Handout is a list of terms used throughout the lesson.

· The Key Concepts is an outline which identifies the main ideas presented in the lesson which students can fill in to aid in note taking during the lesson.

Step 3: Show Scripting Basics: Introduction video.

· This video is six minutes long.

· Be sure to utilize the Key Concepts for this segment of the lesson.

Step 4: Students should begin the Script Treatment Practice Activity.

· Students will review scriptwriting terminology by preparing a brief script treatment.

· Remind students to use the Vocabulary Handout, as needed.

· If students do not complete in class, assign as homework.

Step 5: Exit Ticket:

· Encourage students to talk about what they enjoyed or wanted to know more about in the treatments from the Script Treatment Practice Activity.

Class 2

Class Overview:

Action Plan

Scripting: Connect the Hexagons Bell Ringer

Scripting Infographic Project

Step 1: Bell Ringer:

· Distribute the Scripting: Connect the Hexagons Bell Ringer for students to complete.

Step 2: Students should begin the Scripting Infographic Project.

· Students will create an infographic to summarize the scriptwriting process with a clear map of the steps involved in writing an original script for film, video, radio or stage.

Step 3: Exit Ticket:

· Quick Write: Students will respond to the following prompt in three to four sentences:

- What valuable skill or concept did you learn about scriptwriting which will help you in the future?

Class 3

Class Overview:

Action Plan

Scripting Infographic Project

Scripting Basics: Introduction Assessment

Step 1: Bell Ringer:

· Provide students with a variety of different scripts to review and discuss the differences between the formatting with a partner.

· Briefly discuss the main differences with the class.

Step 2: Administer the Scripting Basics: Introduction Final Assessment.

· The assessment is a comprehensive assessment covering material throughout the entire lesson.

Step 3: Students should complete the Scripting Infographic Project.

· Students will create an infographic to summarize the scriptwriting process with a clear map of the steps involved in writing an original script for film, video, radio or stage.

Step 4: Exit Ticket:

· Have students walk around the classroom to view the other students’ completed infographics.

Activity Overview

Script Treatment Practice

For this activity, students will review proper scriptwriting terminology by preparing a brief script treatment using the table provided. The activity will enable students to apply the terminology used in scriptwriting to the task of writing a brief treatment. Students should keep the Vocabulary Handout nearby to aid them.

Accommodations:

Allow students to work with a partner if needed.

Modifications:

Provide students with sample answers to match each prompt in the table.

Extension:

Using their completed treatments, have students “pitch” their projects to a panel of student judges. If practical, select winning projects for development to an outline or final script phase for extra credit. Alternatively, offer small prizes to writers of winning treatments.

Project Overview

Scripting Infographic

Students will craft an infographic or poster summarizing the scriptwriting process, integrating terminology, steps and resource identification. The final project should provide a clear map of the steps to take in writing an original script for film, video, radio or stage. The project reinforces the learning objectives and particularly benefits visual learners. Prior to the assignment, decide if the students will work in pairs or independently. Also, decide if students will make a physical wall display or use computer graphic design software.

Accommodations:

Provide students with an infographic template to use.

Modifications:

Students can verbalize the process or review completed infographics and provide feedback.

Extension:

Students can adapt the infographic into a social media post or a short video or turn it into a classroom presentation.