About the Course
Ever wondered what it takes to write the next big movie, TV show, or viral YouTube series? In today’s multimedia world, screenwriters need to think visually, like directors and producers, bringing words to life on the screen. In this course, we’ll dive into the essentials of screenwriting, learning how to format a script, build captivating scenes, and create characters that feel real. Step by step, you’ll move from ideas to beat sheets and from outlines to scripting, gaining tools needed to turn your story ideas into filmable screenplays. By the end of the course, you’ll write an original short film script of your own that’s ready to share and showcase.
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate proficiency in the screenwriting process by creating an original, properly formatted short film script from initial concept to working screenplay
- Apply visual storytelling techniques to develop story ideas into producible scripts that effectively integrate scenes, dialogue, and character interactions
- Evaluate and provide constructive feedback on peers’ material while also revising their own work based on critical feedback, showing growth in collaborative and creative writing practices
About Advanced Enrichment courses
These courses offer above-grade-level material that is presented in a novel context, explored with other advanced learners, and guided by a CTY educator to help prepare students for higher-order thinking and college-style academic challenges. Students work individually and may finish the course early if they complete all requirements before the course end date.
Requirements
CTY courses have grade-level requirements and most require minimum test scores. Some courses may also have prerequisites.
Identification DetailsDates and Tuition
Online
You will be asked to join or sign in first.
Days: Every Wed for 6 weeks
Times: 7 - 8:30 p.m. (Eastern time)
Register by: August 11, 2026
Time Commitment:
Time Commitment: 3.5-5.5 hours per week (1.5 hours of class time, 2-4 hours of independent work). This independent time will be used for students to write their scripts. Course will include 6 sessions over 6 weeks.
Course Materials
Please acquire all course materials by the course start date, unless noted as perishable. Items marked as “perishable” should not be acquired until the student needs them in the course. If you have questions about these materials or difficulty locating them, please contact [email protected].
- The Screenwriter’s Bible (7th edition) by David Trottier
ISBN: 978-1-935247-21-0 - WriterSolo screenwriting software (free to download at www.writersolo.com)
You will be asked to join or sign in first.
Days: Every Thu for 6 weeks
Times: 8 - 9:30 p.m. (Eastern time)
Register by: September 15, 2026
Time Commitment:
Time Commitment: 3.5-5.5 hours per week (1.5 hours of class time, 2-4 hours of independent work). This independent time will be used for students to write their scripts. Course will include 6 sessions over 6 weeks.
Course Materials
Please acquire all course materials by the course start date, unless noted as perishable. Items marked as “perishable” should not be acquired until the student needs them in the course. If you have questions about these materials or difficulty locating them, please contact [email protected].
- The Screenwriter’s Bible (7th edition) by David Trottier
ISBN: 978-1-935247-21-0 - WriterSolo screenwriting software (free to download at www.writersolo.com)
Registration Fee and Financial Aid
Tuition and fees will be waived or reduced for students who qualify for financial aid.
Learn more about Financial Aid