11.3 Alexis Language

Lesson Objectives

• By the end of today's class, students will be able to:

  • Define key terms in Saussure’s theory of semiotics: signifier, signified, and sign.

  • Perform a close reading analysis of word-making in Fifteen Dogs.

  • Explain how connotations influence the interpretation of signs.

Page 2: Housekeeping

• Upcoming Assignments:

  • Essay #2 is due on Dec. 4 (final submission deadline).

  • Composition Quiz #3 will take place on Nov. 27.

• Exam Information:

  • The exam is scheduled for Dec. 20, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, in room ENG 1B71.

  • An exam preparation class will be held on Dec. 2.

• Next Class Activities:

  • Student Learning Questionnaire will take place. Students are encouraged to bring an electronic device.

Page 3: Tip of the Day - Passive Voice

• Active Voice: The subject performs the action of the verb.

  • Example: "Zombies ate my brain."

• Passive Voice: The subject receives the action of the verb.

  • Example: "My brain was eaten by zombies."

• Understanding this difference is crucial for effective writing.

Page 4: Continued Passive Voice Examples

• The passive voice can dilute clarity and conciseness in writing. Examples include:

  • "It can be concluded that Pat is deceiving herself."

  • "The significance of the concept is revealed by X."

  • "Deception has been revealed."

• Active voice often leads to stronger, more direct statements.

Page 5: Schedule Overview

• Topics to be covered in upcoming classes:

  • Introduction to key concepts.

  • Discussion of intolerance in language.

  • Exploration of the uncanny.

  • Examination of monstrosity.

Page 6: Saussure’s Theory of Language

• Saussure posits that language is a structured system of signs that express ideas.

• Definitions:

  • A sign consists of a concept (signified) and a sound image (signifier).

  • Language does not merely communicate but actively influences the ideas it conveys.

Page 7: Saussure's Concepts of Signs

• Key elements that provide meaning in language: the connection of word (signifier) to concept (signified).

  • Signifier: The physical form of a word/image.

  • Signified: The mental concept or meaning evoked.

• Understanding this relationship is fundamental for dissecting meaning in texts.

Page 9: Teamwork Activity - Sign Analysis

• Apply Saussure’s concepts by breaking down signs into signifiers and signifieds.

• Specific words to analyze include:

  • "Narwhal" and "Unicorn" - The figurative use of the word for door.

  • Insights from Yoda and Shakespeare in Agatha’s discourse on hunger.

  • Transformation of the word for human in context.

  • Choose one example from above for in-depth discussion in teams.

Page 10: Reminder for Next Class

• Students are encouraged to prepare for the next class focused on the narrative and thematic dissection of Fifteen Dogs.

• Bring any necessary materials and be ready for collaborative exploration.