My notes on semiotics lecture

Semiotics

Firstly, what does semiotics mean? Well, in the dictionary it is described as 'the study of signs and symbols'. An example of this is in road traffic signs, the purpose for them are to warn people what to expect, also to sustain information. They look simple, clean-cut, solid colours, silhouetted and most importantly easy for pedestrians to follow & understand.Semiotic analyses have three parts

• Semantics- the study of meaning.
• Pragmatics- practical considerations.
• Syntax- the study of the rules for the formation of grammatical sentences in a language.

 image from Google

Keywords

Sign are anything that can be used to communicate and there are different types. Iconic -What are Icon signs? A sign whose form has actual characteristics of its meaning. For example iconic sign on public lavatory represent the meaning of a woman and a man, i.e the sign of the man resembles men here than women. The sign is simple and popular that there is no need for text.

Symbols- What are symbols? A thing that represents something else. Like a  cross there are many things the has a cross which mean different things like england flag, medical problems, Christianity etc. Index sign- are signs which are caused by something. This can be anywhere and everything for example litter/rubbish, rain drops on window etc.

I would like to say that I found this lecture helpful and it achieve me at looking signs in a different way. I think semiotics are a key principle in the graphic design, because when you think of it graphic design its basically visual language. Meaning it seeks to express emotion of clarifying information. I also feel that it is important for designers to have an understanding of the way an audience can be led to meaning through signs and texts.

written by Kawsar
Links:
www.computerarts.co.uk
www.dictionary.com
www.aber.ac.uk
www.research.nodebox.net