Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to edit scripts for a range of productions.
It applies to individuals at a senior level who collaborate with writers to assess, analyse, refine and rewrite scripts to final draft stage. They apply high-level skills in development of concepts, structure, dialogue and characterisation, and work in pressure situations to meet production requirements.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Assess scripts for editing | 1.1 Identify relevant story elements appropriate to the type of production 1.2 Assess and apply relevant script-writing tools and techniques to script 1.3 Confirm original script concepts and document proposed changes 1.4 Schedule timelines and set deadlines for completion of the editing process |
2. Edit scripts | 2.1 Collaborate with writer to analyse and define writer’s vision and purpose of the story 2.2 Clarify required story elements, structure and intent 2.3 Confirm that script complies with laws and codes of practice relevant to broadcasting 2.4 Provide advice to meet conceptual, narrative, production and performance requirements, and negotiate amendments with writer 2.5 Use script writing and editing techniques to edit scripts as required 2.6 Adopt safe ergonomic practices when using screens and keyboards for long periods of time |
3. Finalise scripts | 3.1 Liaise with relevant personnel to validate edited scripts 3.2 Discuss and agree on final changes with relevant personnel 3.3 Refine scripts as required and confirm they meet all requirements and are ready for production |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
use script-writing tools and techniques to assess scripts
analyse script and discuss required changes with the writer
edit and finalise scripts to meet production requirements by agreed deadlines.
Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.
Evidence of Knowledge
To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:
explain the process of assessing scripts for editing
describe a range of script writing and editing tools and techniques to edit scripts for screen, media and performance contexts
describe features of texts that may indicate defamation, vilification or breaches of privacy, court reporting or intellectual property issues
outline health and safety requirements as they relate to working for periods of time on screens and keyboards
outline typical challenges that arise when editing scripts and describe ways to resolve them.
Assessment Conditions
Assessment must be conducted in a safe environment where evidence gathered demonstrates consistent performance of typical activities experienced in creative arts industry environments. The assessment environment must include access to:
a range of scripts for refinement
interaction with others
industry software.
Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational educational and training legislation, frameworks and/or standards.
Foundation Skills
This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.
Skill | Performance Criteria | Description |
Reading | 1.1-1.3, 2.1-2.5, 3.1-3.3 | Analyses information from written sources Identifies and evaluates written material |
Writing | 1.3, 1.4, 2.1, 2.2, 2.4, 2.5, 3.2, 3.3 | Generates complex written texts, demonstrating a broad range of script-writing tools and techniques Demonstrates sophisticated writing skills to express precise meaning, and meets production requirements |
Oral Communication | 1.3, 2.1, 2.2, 2.4, 3.1-3.3 | Presents constructive, clear and logical feedback to colleagues In discussions with colleagues, applies listening, questioning and non-verbal communication cues, and clearly and simply articulates ideas, opinions and requirements |
Numeracy | 1.4 | Estimates time required for a given writing, editing or production task |
Navigate the world of work | 2.3, 2.6 | Complies with broadcasting laws and codes of practice Follows work health and safety (WHS) requirements |
Interact with others | 1.3, 2.1, 2.2, 2.4, 3.1-3.3 | Works collaboratively to achieve writing goals Selects and uses communication practices and protocols appropriate to audience Uses interpersonal skills to negotiate script amendments |
Get the work done | 1.1-1.4, 2.1, 2.2, 2.4, 2.5, 3.1-3.3 | Adopts a logical and methodical planning approach to the process of re-writing and refining scripts, documenting all changes to writers’ original written concepts Generates a range of creative solutions to negotiated and agreed amendments, meeting deadlines as required Uses digital tools for research and to create and store files |
Sectors
Communication – Writing