COM 507 Introduction to Semiotics
Spring 2005
W 2:30-4:20
One hour to be arranged
Neff 149

Course Description
COM 507 Introduction to Semiotics, Cr. 3.
The study of languages, literatures, and other systems of human communication, including a wide range of phenomena which can be brought together by means of a general theory of signs. The course deals with three fundamental areas: 1) verbal communication, 2) nonverbal communication (iconic systems, gestures, body language, etc.), and 3) communication through art forms.

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Course Objectives
At the conclusion of the course, students will be able:

1. To articulate an understanding of semiotic analysis;
2. To apply semiotic analytical techniques to various subjects and in various situations; and
3. To assess the strengths and weaknesses of semiotics as a tool to explain human communication
.

Texts

• Paul Cobley and Litza Jansz. Introducing Semiotics
• Wendy Leeds Hurwitz. Semiotics and Communication: Signs, Codes, Cultures
• Roland Barthes. Image/Music/Text
• Readings linked to Course Schedule Page (Adobe Acrobat Reader is necessary!)
• Media Communication Terms: Aesthetics and Criticism

Assignments
All assignment must be completed in order to achieve a passing grade in this course.

1. Menu/Restaurant Project: Each study group will offer a narrative analysis of a restaurant .



2. Semiotic Project: Each student will offer a semiotic analysis of a family gathering or communal event (such as a Family Easter Dinner or an organized public festival).
   
   
3. Study Group Presentations: Each group will present a 30-40 minute presentation on recent/current applied or theoretical semiological research.
   
   
4. Final Essay: TBA

Grading
Course assignments and examinations will be weighted as follows:

Assignment	Points
Menu/Restaurant Project	200 points
Semiotic Project	400 points
Study Group Presentations	200 points
Final Essay	200 points
Total	1000 points

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The final grade will be based on the following scale:

Points	Grade
1000-890 points	A
889-790 points	B
789-700 points	C
699-600 points	D
599 points-below	F

Course Policies
1. You are expected to attend class.
2. All assignments must be turned in. Failure to turn in an assigment will result in a grade of F for the course.
3. No late assignments will be accepted. Due dates are stated in the syllabus.
4. No handwritten assignments will be accepted.

Campus Services

• In making the transition from novice to experienced college student, the Center for Academic Support and Advancement (CASA) an make the critical difference. CASA offers study-skills assistance, free tutoring, supplemental instruction, and free computer-technology courses (STEPs). The center is also the advising unit for students studying English as a Second Language.
• Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) coordinates IPFW’s programming for people with disabilities, as required by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Persons with qualifying disability conditions per these regulations are eligible for specialized academic support services and other assistance through SSD.
• For questions about how the University experience will enhance your life and potential career, please contact Academic Counseling and Career Services.
• For help with writing, please contact the Writing Center. In free one-on-one conferences, knowledgeable writing consultants will talk with you about your writing for any class, wherever you are in the writing process — understanding assignments, brainstorming and planning, revising, and polishing final drafts. Consultants help you focus, organize, develop and analyze your thoughts, revise, and work on issues of editing and style. (Consultants will not edit or proofread for you but will help you learn how to edit and proofread your own papers).

URL:http://users.ipfw.edu/tankel/Syllabi/Spring2005/com507s05.htm
Revised: 3 January 2005