This will act as a warm-up exercise for the group, whether they know each other, or not. Provide a short introduction around the idea that each media production is a mystery story, a coded message. Once we ‘break the code’, the mystery is solved, we can begin a fuller interpretation of the production. This is a semiotic approach.
(1) Have a bundle of slips of paper or cards, with concepts on them (e.g. genres of movies or TV programmes; see list attached) one concept per slip. Each participant selects one slip at random. Participants then pair off for discussion and collaboration. This provides an opportunity for people to get to know each other.
(2) The participants write down at least three signifiers to indicate to the audience the message they wish to convey – acting as ‘director of a movie or television show’. (In the case of the Space Movie: a ray gun, a bug-eyed monster and a space suit, etc.)
(3) Each pair can confer and advise each other as they identify their signifiers, which are codes, or clues that the viewer must ‘break’ in order to understand the message.
(4) Give ten minute for this exercise. Group then re-assembles and each person reads their signifiers and sees who can guess the concept. A general discussion can then ensue in relation to the idea of signifiers in the media.
A hand out will be supplied to elaborate on the concept of ‘signifiers’ in the media.
Remember! There are no right or wrong answers in this exercise. If there is confusion around a set of clues offered, remind participants that everyone interprets media signs differently.
A room with chairs
Cue cards with subject and space for three clues and Pens
» Some sample Topics LIGHTS.pdf
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