COM 507 Introduction to Semiotics
Spring 2004
T 10:00-11:50
One hour to be arranged
SB G67

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

• Daniel Chandler. Semiotics: The Basics
• Wendy Leeds Hurwitz. Semiotics and Communication: Signs, Codes, Cultures
• Roland Barthes. Image/Music/Text
• Readings linked to Course Schedule Page (Adobe Acrobat Reader may be 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 semtiotic analysis of a restaurant though its menu.



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 applied or theoretical semiological research.
   
   
4. Final Essay: Each student will prepare a 3-5 page essay titled "The Efficacy of Semiotics in the Study of Communication."

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

1. If you have or aquire a disability and would like to find out what special services may be available to you, contact Services for Students with Disabilities in WU 118 & 218 (481-6657, voice/TTY).
   
2. The IPFW Writing Center:

   I encourage you to visit the IPFW Writing Center, Kettler G19, where writing consultants can help you understand assignments; brainstorm, develop and logically organize your ideas; learn strategies for wqrirting clearly; avoid plagiarism; and improve your documentation, editing, and proofreading skills. Bring your writing assignment for any class, questions, ideas, and a draft (if you have one). The service is free. Walk-ins arre welcome, but to ensure help when you need it, sign up for appointments on the board outside KT G19 or call 481-5740. Writing improvement happens over time, so visit regularly. Every writer needs a reader. Online at http://www.ipfw.edu/engl/wchome.htm.

URL:http://users.ipfw.edu/tankel/syllabi/Spring2004/com507s04.htm
Revised: 11 January 2004