Semiotic analysis

By ME

Introduction to semiotics

Semiotics is the study of signs. We use it in media to analyse texts to find the information that is useful.

Saussure states that we read signs in three steps:

• Sign: We see the actual thing. E.g: the word cat is a series of curves and lines on paper.

• Signifier: We interpret the lines on the paper to make up the word cat.

• Signified: We recognise what a cat is. E.g: we picture a particular animal.

Introduction to semiotics

Semiotics is the study of signs. We use it in media to analyse texts to find the information that is useful.

Barthes looks at the process in 2 parts.

• Sign: A red rose.

• Denotation: we imagine a particular flower, colour.

• Connotation: we attach a deeper meaning to the rose such as romance. In other words Denotation is saying exactly what we can see. Connotation is the deeper meaning we attach to it.

Strapline: lets us know the topic of the magazine

Cover Image: the cover image helps indicate what the magazine is about, in this case it’s a skateboarder

Masthead: this is another word for title.For this magazine, the colour red could mean danger and that skating can be dangerous.

Cover line:This intrigues the reader, make them think they want to know more. Female style font may attract a female audience

Cover line: shows some content of the magazine,In this case some famous people in the skater world.

Target audience:Age:15-25 years oldGender: bothInterests: skateboardingLifestyle: casual, care freeCareer: student

Conclusion

• The possible average reader is a late teens to early twenties reader who can be either male or female. The reader enjoys skateboarding and a casual lifestyle. They pass their time in an educational environment.