University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: 11.00 am Wed and 12.00 noon Wed

Contemporary playwriting is flourishing in Britain, and this module will use the best examples of modern classic plays to unearth technique and skills that the students will then be asked to apply. The module aims to enable students to write for the theatre, to have an awareness of the creative process and to shape narrative into a scene or scenes. It is intended as an introduction to playwriting, and the expectation is that students will have little or no previous experience of playwriting, although a keen interest and enthusiasm for theatre is essential. The classes will combine an academic and a practical approach to developing writing: as well as formally studying the published works of established playwrights, we will also workshop the students' texts, and approach some exercises through improvisation. The module will also ask students to consider and evolve their view on the role of the playwright at a society level, and the cultural and political impact of a new play. (Group E)

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass EN2003 and pass EN2004

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take EN4417 or take EN4420 or take EN3217

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2-hour seminars and 2 optional consultative hours

Scheduled learning hours: 20

Guided independent study hours: 280

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel