For each of your "scripts" that you are working on groups, as you script I want you to consider what codes and conventions you should consider. What are CODES and CONVENTIONS? When we discussed in class topics like "What does a typical drama show include?" we were actually already discussing these, just not by name.

What are codes?

Codes are systems of signs, which create meaning. Codes can be divided into two categories – technical and symbolic.

Technical codes are all the ways in which equipment is used to tell the story in a media text, for example the camera work in a film.

Symbolic codes show what is beneath the surface of what we see. For example, a character's actions show you how the character is feeling.

Some codes fit both categories – music for example, is both technical and symbolic.

What are conventions?

Conventions are the generally accepted ways of doing something. There are general conventions in any medium, such as the use of interviewee quotes in a print article, but conventions are also genre specific.

Codes and conventions are used together in any study of a genre – it is not enough to discuss a technical code used such as camera work, without saying how it is conventionally used in a genre.

For example, the technical code of lighting is used in some way in all film genres. It is a convention of the horror genre that side and back lighting is used to create mystery and suspense – an integral part of any horror movie.

*** You will need to consider this in your scripts. On Wednesday, March 21^st, we will “round-table” all of your scripts. Groups will have the opportunity to ask questions of other groups. In the end we will be “producing” one of your shows in class and as a class.

Confused? Look at this: https://www.slideshare.net/JasonsA2Media/codes-and-conventions-of-the-thriller-genre

Source link: http://media-studies.tki.org.nz/Teaching-media-studies/Media-concepts/Codes-and-conventions