Assignment #4: Strange World, Special Word

Introduction

Create a world different from our own and populate it with characters who inhabit this reality. Within this unique world, your characters must correctly use one specific word in their dialogue, demonstrating they understand its actual meaning.

Assignment Details

Objective

Write a 3-5 page script that builds a unique world through action, character, and concise description of locations, characters, and objects.

Change at least one major aspect of how this world differs from our own (different rules, political system, social structure, physics, etc.).

It must be a complete story, using the aspects of WOARO.

Don't overlook the importance of proper formatting and technical writing skills—errors in these areas will cost you marks. Have fun with this one!

The Word Challenge

Within this world, your characters must properly use one of these words:

  1. Serendipity (meaning: the occurrence and development of events by chance in a happy or beneficial way)
  2. Cacophony (meaning: a harsh, discordant mixture of sounds)
  3. Ephemeral (meaning: lasting for a very short time)

World-Building Tools

Consider using these techniques to develop your unique world:

  • Create a set of 3-4 key rules that govern your world
  • Use visual elements and specific objects to reveal your world without explanation
  • Show your world through character interactions and responses
  • Integrate world details naturally through:
    • Opening descriptions (keep them tight, 3-4 lines maximum)
    • Character actions and responses
    • Specific objects and their significance
    • Visual elements that hint at the world's structure

Using WOARO to Build Your World

Remember to create a complete story that reveals your world naturally:

  • What your character wants tells us about what's valuable in this world
  • What stands in their way shows us the world's conflicts and limitations
  • How they take action reveals the tools, abilities, or restrictions of this world
  • How others respond demonstrates social structures and rules
  • Whether they get what they want (or don't) shows what's possible in this reality

Remember: If you or your characters start telling the reader information in any manner, you've done this exercise wrong. Show, don't tell!

Formatting and Submission Guidelines

  • Length: 3-5 pages of script, plus a properly formatted title page
  • Format: Adhere to basic screenplay format as taught in class
  • File Type: Submit as a PDF file
  • Submission Method: Upload your PDF to me on Discord
  • Due Date: November 19, 2024

Grading Criteria (10% of final grade)

  1. Formatting (30%)
    • Correct application of taught formatting elements
    • Appropriate use of white space for readability
    • Proper scene headings, character introductions, and dialogue layout
    • Vivid, concise action descriptions
    • Emphasis on showing rather than telling (use active, visual descriptions)
  2. Spelling and Grammar (30%)
    • Error-free writing
    • Proper use of punctuation in both action lines and dialogue
    • Correct grammar and syntax
  3. Story Structure (20%)
    • Does the story work as a coherent narrative?
    • Effective application of the WOARO structure
    • If your story reads as if AI wrote it or maybe confused as being written by AI, a mark will be deducted
  4. Page Count (10%)
    • Meeting the required 3-5 pages, plus title page
  5. World-Building and Word (10%)
    • Clear establishment of a unique world through action
    • Natural incorporation of the chosen word in its correct context
    • No exposition or explanation of the world

Key Points to Remember

  • Create a world different from our own in at least one major way
  • Tell a complete story using WOARO - make sure your character has a clear want and obstacle
  • Naturally incorporate your chosen word (serendipity, cacophony, or ephemeral) in its correct context
  • Show us your world through action and character - never explain it
  • Keep descriptions concise but vivid
  • Follow proper formatting and technical requirements. Errors in these areas will cost you marks.