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Grades level iconsGrades 9–10
Session time icon60+ Minutes
Genre information iconMedia, Narrative
Video resource type iconVideos

Writing for TV with Tim McKeon

by 826 National
Television writer and showrunner Tim McKeon shares how he became a scriptwriter and the valuable skills you'll need if you'd like to become one too.
About the Author

Tim McKeon is a five-time Emmy-winning kids’ TV writer, director and producer; Co-Creator, Executive Producer and Showrunner of Odd Squad for PBS Kids; Executive Producer of Odd Squad: Mobile Unit; and Creator, Executive Producer and Showrunner of Helpsters for Apple TV+. Currently, he’s writing jokes for squirrels with Mo Willems.

What Your Students Will Learn

You will learn how to write an extended premise about an original TV show idea.

Common Core Standards
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-10.3.A Common Core Standards Icon
Engage and orient the reader by setting out a problem, situation, or observation, establishing one or multiple point(s) of view, and introducing a narrator and/or characters; create a smooth progression of experiences or events.
What You Will Do

A premise is a short, written statement that communicates the characters and plot of a TV show.

STEP 1

First, watch the video and then answer this question in your writing journal: “What is your favorite TV show, and what is 1 specific reason why you like it—the characters, the plot, the genre, etc.?” 

STEP 2

Next, read the term definitions and answer the questions on page 1 of the Writing for TV—Handout.

STEP 3

Next, you will develop the basic elements of your own TV show: protagonist, antagonist, goals, and obstacles (review the definitions on page 1 if you need a reminder). An example of how to fill out this worksheet is on page 2 of the handout. Develop your ideas on page 3. If you need more room, continue in your writing journal.

 STEP 4

Answer the questions on page...

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