Module Details

The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title From Sign to Text: Exploring Multi-Modal Communication
Code ENGL345
Coordinator Miss C Guardamagna
English
C.Guardamagna@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2022-23 Level 6 FHEQ First Semester 30

Aims

1. To gain an understanding of the scope of Semiotics in its theoretical and applied strands.
2. To develop a critical understanding theories and concepts in Semiotics and their application to neighbouring fields.
3. To understand the role played by language among other communication systems.
4. To be able to analyse linguistic and non-linguistic texts by applying key concepts, tools and methods in Semiotics.


Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Students will demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the scope and history of Semiotics.

(LO2) Students will demonstrate an understanding of the basic tenets and key concepts in Semiotics.

(LO3) Students will demonstrate the ability to apply a range of semiotic models and methods to the analysis of text/products/activities.

(LO4) Students will demonstrate the ability to critically compare and evaluate relevant theoretical concepts within the field of Semiotics.

(LO5) Students will use technical vocabulary accurately.

(LO6) Students will demonstrate fluency and rigour in oral presentations in the field of Semiotics.

(S1) Students will read closely and critically.

(S2) Students will write clearly, accurately and effectively.

(S3) Students will apply scholarly bibliographic skills appropriate to the subject.

(S4) Students will present information within wider contexts.

(S5) Students will plan, organise and report to deadline.

(S6) Students will articulate their own and other people’s ideas concisely, accurately and persuasively both orally and in writing.

(S7) Students will develop working relationships with others in teams, especially through constructive dialogue (for example, by listening, asking and responding to questions).

(S8) Students will be sensitive to cultural contexts when working with others.

(S9) Students will apply creativity and rigour to problem-solving, adapting to different demands and tasks.


Syllabus

 

Typically, the module will cover: theoretical pre-requisites, storytelling, visual communication, comics, art & design, marketing & advertising, mass media, food, urban planning, the body, fashion and music.


Teaching and Learning Strategies

The workshops (large group session used for the transmission of information, facts, and concepts) (a) present and critically position basic notions and fundamental tenets of Semiotics, (b) introduce relevant figures in the field of Semiotics, (c) introduce approaches to various areas and subfields of Semiotics, (c) offer exemplification through a wide range of case studies involving linguistic and non-linguistic texts (d) engage in (modelling) practical applications of the theory. Students will have one 1.5h long lecture per week.
Tutorials (small group session for discussion of module topics). There will be one 1.5h long tutorial per week. Pre-work for tutorials will be required. This work will be flagged up in workshops and distributed via the virtual learning environment.

Formative assessment to take place in a tutorial session, typically around of week 4.

Independent study time should be spent reading around the subject matter (indicative reading lists will be p rovided), preparing for the tutorials (completing worksheets) and working towards the assessment (formative assessment, coursework).


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours     18

    18

36
Timetable (if known)     90 mins X 1 totaling 18
 
    90 mins X 1 totaling 18
 
 
Private Study 264
TOTAL HOURS 300

Assessment

EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Coursework 2 - 4,500 words There is a resit opportunity. This is an anonymous assessment.    70       
Quiz/MTC/Short Answers Test.  30         
Oral Presentation  10    10       
Coursework 1 - 2,000 words There is a resit opportunity. This is an anonymous assessment.    20       

Recommended Texts

Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.