Scriptwriting Workshop

Learning Objectives (WALT)

• WALT: Create a simple script using a structured template that includes characters, setting, dialogue, and action.
• WALT: Collaborate respectfully to share ideas and develop characters.
• WALT: Understand the elements of drama and use them to communicate ideas.
• WALT: Reflect on and improve our scripts based on peer feedback.

Western Australian Curriculum Alignment

• AC9ADR6C01: Develop characters and situations, and shape and sustain dramatic action to communicate ideas, perspectives and/or meaning in improvised, devised and/or scripted forms.
• AC9ADR6P01: Rehearse and perform improvised, devised and/or scripted drama in informal settings, showing understanding of rehearsing and collaboration.
• General Capabilities: Collaboration, Critical and Creative Thinking, Personal and Social Capability.

Success Criteria

• I can use a script template to create my own script with clear characters, dialogue, and setting.
• I can work with others to develop ideas and give helpful feedback.
• I can use drama elements like role, place, situation, language, and movement.
• I can make improvements to my script after feedback.

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Lesson Breakdown (53 minutes)

1. Introduction and Engagement (7 minutes)

• Welcome students and introduce the lesson’s WALT.
• Brief discussion: What is a script? Why do we use scripts in drama?
• Show an example of a simple script (2-3 lines) using a template projected on the board.
• Discuss key parts: Characters, Setting, Dialogue, Action/Stage directions.

2. Exploring the Script Template (8 minutes)

• Distribute a simple scriptwriting template to each student:
  • Title
  • Setting/Location
  • Character names with short description
  • Scene description (What is happening?)
  • Dialogue lines for each character
  • Stage directions or actions
• Walk through an example as a class, collaboratively fill out each section based on a familiar story or theme (e.g. local community or school event).
• Pause for student questions.

3. Independent and Group Writing (18 minutes)

• Students individually begin brainstorming ideas for their own short script using the template.
• Encourage choice of topic related to students' daily life or imaginative stories.
• After initial brainstorming (5-7 minutes), divide students into pairs or small groups (3-4 students).
• Share ideas and begin co-creating or refining scripts collaboratively.
• Circulate to provide guidance, prompting use of dramatic elements and ensuring structure is clear.

4. Sharing and Peer Feedback (12 minutes)

• Each group shares their script ideas aloud with the class or in smaller groups.
• Use “Two Stars and a Wish” feedback strategy:
  • Two positive comments about the script (creativity, clear character roles, etc.)
  • One suggestion for improvement.
• Discuss how feedback helps improve drama scripts.

5. Reflection and Next Steps (8 minutes)

• Students individually reflect on what they learned and write a sentence or two about what they could improve.
• Discuss importance of rehearsal and collaboration as next steps.
• Collect scripts or allow students to take home for further development.
• Quick class round: What was the most fun part? What was challenging?

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Differentiation Strategies

• Provide script template with sentence starters for students needing extra support.
• Allow use of drawing or storyboard panels alongside written dialogue for younger or visual learners.
• For advanced learners: Challenge to add stage directions that manipulate elements like tension or mood (e.g. silence, slow movement).
• Pair diverse learners strategically for peer support and collaboration.

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Extension Activities

• Create a simple storyboard or digital comic strip based on the script.
• Perform short scenes from created scripts in groups over subsequent lessons.
• Use recording devices for students to record their scripted dialogue.
• Encourage additional scripting involving props or simple costume ideas for performance.

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Materials Required

• Printed script template handouts
• Whiteboard/flipchart for examples
• Writing materials (paper, pencils)
• Optional: Audio or video recording devices

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This lesson plan is tailored to Years 3-6 students in Western Australia following curriculum code AC9ADR6C01 and AC9ADR6P01, focusing on developing and scripting drama collaboratively, and aligns with the performance and creation emphases for this stage of learning drama【1:AC9ADR6C01.md】【14:AC9ADR6P01.md】. It promotes creativity, collaboration, and reflection in a structured but flexible environment, suitable for a small class of 14 students at Carnamah District High School.