1.1 Define the following building blocks of the semiotic approach. Include examples to
demonstrate your understanding of them:
1.1.1 Signs and sign system (4)
Signs can either be linguistic (words) or pictorial (visual). Sign systems involve the study of
how signs collectively form a sign system. Waving, which is a non-verbal gesture, is a sign
system. Listening to the radio (consisting of audio-visual signs) is a sign system (Fourie
2007:150).
1.1.2 Codes (4)
Signs are related to one another by means of codes which are understood by the users;
various sign systems are related to one another by means of various codes. For example,
how people speak in a language which they can both relate to and understand is an example
of a code. Deaf people use sign language to understand each other (Fourie 2007:150).
1.1.3 Meaning (4)
This is based on what we know (our knowledge of something or somebody) and what we
believe. Meaning is linked to semiotics (the study of signs). The media creates and
disseminate meanings (ideologies), which the user chooses either to accept or reject.
1
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card or Stuvia-credit for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller TestbanksNotesAssignmentsAndExampacksGuru. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for $2.50. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.