Writing and Critical Thinking: Civic Discourse in a Fractious World
Introduction
Introduction
How do we turn science into art? This creative writing module examines how theatre explores issues of science -- the personal, institutional and social dimensions of scientific inquiry – as students create new original dramatic works. Students read and analyse science plays from a playwright’s perspective, and apply the techniques learned to their own short weekly creative writing exercises based on scientific developments. These will be critiqued by their peers, and will culminate in the research and writing of their own one-act plays.
Organisation
Organisation
The module will be conducted as a weekly 4-hour seminar, comprising discussion of the themes readings as well and critique of students’ creative writing assignments. Students will interrogate the assumptions and power dynamics that underlie how science is rendered into narratives; link their research, analytical and creative skills in creating original scenes and plays about science; hone their ability to give and receive constructive criticism; and develop their own unique expressive voice and creative vision.
Outline
Outline
Weeks 1-3:
- Science and the individual: ethics and politics
- Writing exercises: Characters, Goals, and Obstacles; Dialogue and Silence
Weeks 4-6:
- Science and the institution: systems and power
- Writing exercises: Structure and Plot; Movement and Stillness
Weeks 7-9:
- Science and society: politics and consequences
- Writing exercises: Collaborative Writing; Stage Space and Stage Time
Weeks 10-13:
- Research, writing and revising of Final Plays
Assessment
Assessment
- Seminar Participation – 20%
- Creative Writing Exercises – 30%
- Essays – 25%
- Final Play – 25%
Reading List
Reading List
Readings include Michael Frayn’s Copenhagen; Carl Djerassi and Roald Hoffmann’s Oxygen, articles on contemporary scientific issues.