Do you see yourself writing scripts for TV, radio, film or podcasts? Script writing is an exciting and lucrative industry that’s full of opportunity for those who have a way with words. This course is ideal for developing your script writing ability, whether to find employment as a scriptwriter or to write your own scripts.
Introduction to Script Writing is an online professional development program that will help you develop your professional script-writing skills for a variety of applications, from websites to radio, TV, film, advertising and educational resources.
In this script writing course, you will learn how to format scripts, develop a storyline, outline and develop a script, understand the importance of characterisation, as well as how dialogue, music, sound effects and visual components combine to create a compelling script.
You will also learn how to write scripts for children and gain an understanding of the business of script writing, from legal and ethical considerations to commercial opportunities, to start your own production business.
On completion of this course, you will have developed your understanding of the business of script writing and how to write scripts for a variety of mediums and audiences.
Course Structure
Unit - Script Writing
Unit 1 – Scope and nature of script writing
- Introduction – what are scripts?
- Where are scripts used?
- Writing Scripts – what is the story you want to tell?
- One page, one minute rule
- Visual, behaviour and aural storytelling
- Show and don’t tell
- Handling time
- Formatting script
- Abbreviations
Unit 2 – Plotting the screen play
- Types of stories.
- What are the specifications?
- Duration of the performance
- Developing the story-line
- The Story Pyramid
- Creating a story board
- Storyboards for film and advertising
- Storyboards for theatre
- Storyboards for speakers, presentations, educational purposes, and corporate work
- Techniques for plotting a story
- Fiction and creative non-fiction
- Non-fiction – Education, Corporate, Presentation Writing
- Screen play formatting guide
Unit 3 – Outline and writing the script
- Writing the outline
- Story arcs
- Characters
- Always outline
- Sequencing
- Outlines for Colleagues
- 1-2 page outlines
- Longer outlines
- Cliff hangers in a script
- How cliff hangers can be used
- Formatting outlines
- How to write the script
- Formatting
Unit 4 – Characterisation
- Writing good characters.
- Example – a description of Mrs Smith
- Building characters.
- Character planning
- Character goal setting and motivation
- Example: Beauty and the Beast
- Character Language
Unit 5 – Use of dialogue and sound effects
- Dialogue in script writing
- Writing dialogue
- Dialogue tags
- Tips on writing dialogue
- The Importance of Silence
- Examples of dialogue
- Using sound effects
Unit 6 – Writing for Internet, TV and Film
- Time frame
- Fiction or non-fiction writing
- Pace
- Sound effects
- Visuals
- Writing for TV
- Writing a ‘Spec’ for a TV series
- Writing for film/screenwriting.
- Writing for the Internet
- Writing for websites
- Sample Script for Online Video
- How Material is Published Online
- Management Systems
Unit 7 – Writing for radio and audio presentations
- Introduction
- Components
- Voice and music
- Sound Effects
- Hints and tips
- Other points to consider when writing for radio
Unit 8 – Writing for training/instructional videos
- One person script
- Two-person script
- Multiple persons script
- Scenes
- Visuals in training presentations.
- PowerPoint
- Videos
- Diagrams
- Flow charts
- Example of a simple flow chart for growing carnations:
- Example of a very simple business flow chart
Unit 9 – Writing broadcasts for children
- Fiction and non-fiction hybrids
- Genres
- Comedy
- Scary Programmes
- Educational
- Films
- Children’s cognitive development
- Implications for the writer
- Socialisation
- Culture
- Implications for the writer
- Gender, roles and stereotyping
- A note on parents in children’s texts
Unit 10 – Writing for advertising
- Writing for advertising
- What is the purpose of advertising?
- Writing and analysing adverts
- Summary skills
- Tips for summarising
- Writing for infomercials
Unit 11 – The Business of Script Writing
- Commercial opportunities
- Start your own production business
- Ethical and legal considerations.
- The law
- Plagiarism
- Defamation
Study Hours
Estimated duration 50 hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Testimonials
Graduation
A Certificate of Attainment and Statement of Results will be issued upon successful completion of this course.
How to Enrol
Enrol Online: Enrol Now
Enrol via Live Chat (Business Hours)
Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
Enrol via Purchase Order/Tax Invoice
Enrolling Multiple Staff?
To enrol multiple staff, please complete the Employer Enrolment Form. We’ll be in touch within 60 minutes during business hours!
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and Direct Deposit.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
To study online with Australian Online Courses you will need a computer (desktop PC/laptop) running a current/updated operating system with reliable high-speed internet access. You will need to use the Google Chrome browser to access your course.
Are there any computer requirements?
To study online with Australian Online Courses you will need a computer (desktop PC/laptop) running a current/updated operating system with reliable high-speed internet access. You will need to use the Google Chrome browser to access your course.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
How is this course delivered?
This course is delivered online via our easy-to-navigate Learning Management System (LMS), where you will discover interactive online learning/written content, resources and assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our LMS and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email only during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
Professional development for those aspiring to write scripts, make films or educational videos. Career opportunities can lead to media and marketing.
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