The study of how signs convey meaning is applied to photographs, which are deemed the ideal vehicle for intercultural communication because of their realistic nature. Several classes of signs are identified and their meanings discussed. (JEG)

Discusses several philosophies of linguistics and semiotics that debate the importance of words and their relationship to signs, language as the primary modeling system, and the historical primacy of verbal versus visual communication. Describes human communication as both language-based and nonverbal, both aspects inviting arbitrary and abstract…

As children begin to grasp the basic functions of literacy, they become engaged in meaning-making that alternates between and/or combines oral language, written and printed symbols, drawings, and other formats. This article examines the benefits to children of an integrated approach to literacy, highlighting the Reggio Emilia approach, and offers…