2. Codes
What is meant by ‘codes’…?
- The signs featured in the text (also known as
semiotics).
- Semiotics = The study of signs and symbols,
especially within language and communication.
- Almost all media products will have codes, signs
or symbols embedded within them.
- These codes are what usually help categorise
the media product.
3. Codes
The types of codes…
- Technical codes, which include elements such as
camerawork, sound, lighting, etc.
- Symbolic codes, which include elements such as
body language, clothes, objects, etc.
- Written codes, which include elements such as
language style, written text, etc.
“A code is a rule-governed system of signs, whose rules and conventions
are shared amongst members of a culture, and which is used to generate
and circulate meanings in and for that culture.”
John Fiske (1987)
4. Codes
What do you understand by these ‘codes’…?
Possible answers = Astrology, astronomy, star
signs, zodiac, etc…
5. Codes
What do you understand by these ‘codes’…?
Possible answers = Culture, faith, following,
religion, etc…
6. Codes
What do you understand by these ‘codes’…?
Possible answers = Confrontation, drama,
family, real life, etc…
7. Codes & Conventions
Extract practice…
- Watch the opening scene of Kevin and Perry Go
Large (up to 05:30 mins).
- Note down the evident codes and explain what
they may symbolise…
9. Conventions
What is meant by ‘conventions’…?
- The typical elements featured in the text.
- A convention is a standard procedure or
technique used, especially within the arts.
- For example…
* Strenuous relationships in TV dramas.
* Dark lighting, tense music, women as victims in
horror films.
