This class is taught in English.

Session Goals

Session 1:
  • Understand what a screenplay is and its role in the filmmaking process.
  • Learn about the structure of a screenplay, including acts, scenes, and sequences.
  • Develop the skills to create a compelling logline and premise for their screenplay.
  • Begin the process of character development for their screenplay.

Session 2:
  • Understand the importance of creating well-rounded characters in a screenplay.
  • Learn how to develop character motivation and conflict to drive the story.
  • Explore the concept of character arcs and their role in storytelling.
  • Develop skills in writing effective dialogue that reveals character traits and advances the plot.

Session 3:
  • Understand the importance of a strong story concept and how it influences the entire screenplay.
  • Learn techniques to create a compelling plot with twists and turns that captivate the audience.
  • Gain insights into the role of genre and tone in storytelling and how they impact the overall narrative.
  • Recognize the significance of conflict and its role in driving the story forward and keeping the audience engaged.

Session 4: 
  • Understand the significance of revising and polishing their screenplay for enhancing its quality.
  • Learn effective techniques for giving and receiving feedback in a writers' workshop setting.
  • Recognize the iterative nature of the writing process and the value of rewriting.
  • Celebrate their achievements and the completion of their first screenplay.

Mr. LeCara is a highly experienced educator and published author with a passion for the arts. During his college years, he pursued a minor in theater arts, fueling his love for storytelling and performance. Throughout his career, Mr. LeCara has dedicated himself to organizing and directing various student plays, classroom performances, and public speaking activities, fostering a creative and engaging learning environment.

Despite being offered a role in a popular traveling off-Broadway holiday production, Mr. LeCara prioritized his commitment to teaching and declined the opportunity to ensure his students' educational experience remained uninterrupted. However, he did venture into the world of film acting, making a notable appearance in "Layla's Rain," an award-winning short film written and directed by Kit Wilson in 2019.

Mr. LeCara’s involvement in the film industry extends beyond acting. He is serving as an associate producer on an independent sci-fi film project delayed by COVID-19 and recent events impacting the film industry. Furthermore, he currently holds the position of executive producer for an upcoming full-length feature film, where he will also play a role.

Mr. LeCara actively collaborates with talented actors, writers, directors, and studios. In 2022, he even had the honor of working as an event management planner for an independent studio client at an Academy Awards Expo held during Oscar week.

Homework Offered
Home Activities
  • Session 1: Creating compelling character profiles. Deciding on which conflict to explore based on a story selection. 
  • Session 2: Writing dialogue using the screenplay format.
  • Session 3: Story Development.
  • Session 4: Reflection and feedback. Option to revise and refine screenplays.
1 - 2 hours per week outside of class
Assessments Offered
Learner Progress will be assessed based on the following:
  • active participation in class discussions and activities
  • the quality of their logline and premise
  • commitment to developing their characters in the home activity
  • depth and complexity of their character profiles
  • understanding of character arcs as demonstrated in discussions
  • quality of their dialogue scene in the home activity
  • quality of their story concept development
  • understanding of plot structure as demonstrated in discussions and the home activity
  • ability to identify and develop conflicts with high stakes in their screenplay outlines
  • ability to incorporate feedback and revise their screenplays effectively
  • reflection on their personal growth throughout the course 

Feedback will be provided to support learner growth: 
  • and improvement in screenwriting skills
  • in character development and dialogue writing skills
  • in story and plot development skills
  • and understanding of the revision process
Grades Offered