THEA 370: Dramatic Writing
Credit Hours: (3) Three hours lecture and discussion
The basic principles of dramatic writing are explored in a forum involving the reading
and discussion of student plays, films, or screenplays. Students complete a dramatic
play or equivalent screen play. Completed scripts are sought for production.
Note(s): Humanistic or Artistic Expression designated course.
Detailed Description of Course
The course presents the basic principles of playwriting and provides a forum for reading
and discussing student plays. The basic skills of dramaturgy are presented. The completion
of a one-act play is the major goal of the course.
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
Short plays by established playwrights will be read and critiqued by students. Students
will discuss and critique theatrical productions presented at Radford University.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
Students will recognize the art and craft of playwriting. Students will recognize
the art and skill of dramaturgy. Each student will write a one-act play. At the conclusion
of the course, students will recognize effective play structure.
Assessment Measures
All students turn in a journal at the end of the semester. The journal will include
a completed one act play, all notes from plays critiqued and discussed in class, observations
and criticisms of theatrical productions, and all work from individual projects and
unfinished plays.
Other Course Information
None
Review and Approval
3/2009 Revision Carl Lefko
3/2010 Revision Carl Lefko
July 2010
February 14, 2017
March 01, 2021