JOUR11-110: Creative Writing: Plot and Genre

Description

Creative Writing: Plot and Genre introduces long-form storytelling techniques, which you can apply to screenwriting, prose (fiction and creative non-fiction) and hybrid multimedia formats. This subject defines narrative, plot and genre, reviewing storytelling techniques from Aristotle to Joseph Campbell’s ‘The Hero’s Journey’. It also includes the significant forms and conventions of commercial, literary and screen genres; character motivation and development; character and story arcs; sub-plots; world-building; and the effect of suspense, pace, tension and conflict on plot at a macro level. Using templates developed by craft writers like Joseph Campbell and Blake Snyder, you will learn to conceptualise, workshop and articulate your own narrative premise then plot story and character arcs and write a sample opening chapter/scene. You will submit all assessment in formats consistent with industry expectations.

Subject details

Learning outcomes

1. Apply a critical understanding of the theory, traditions and ethics of historical and contemporary storytelling to the development of plot and genre. 2. Create and articulate an original narrative premise and narrative arc, embedding elements of tension, drama and character development. 3. Generate a pitch, narrative outline and opening scene/chapters in industry-standard formats. 4. Evaluate and critique peer and industry work to assess strengths and weaknesses in the context of market, audience and narrative intent. 5. Formulate an approach to finding and harnessing publishing opportunities through a broad understanding of the evolving publishing landscape.

Enrolment requirements

Subject outlines

• September 2021 [Standard]
• September 2020 [Standard - Creative Writing: Plot and Genre]
• September 2019 [Standard]
• September 2018 [Standard]

Subject dates