It’s a bird, It’s a plane, It’s Semiotics

Joseph Parrett

This is a kindergarten level unit, though it would apply well to other primary grades or could be adapted for even higher grade levels. This unit focuses on semiotics, the study of signs. To make this unit highly engaging we will be exploring superhero characters from American pop culture. These cultural icons will be examined as both signifier and signified. We will also be considering symbols associated with these characters. Through our explorations we will be using critical thinking skills and connecting the content to ourselves, the world, and other stories. We will also be asking and answering questions and using language gained through our learning. Students will be evaluating superheroes and creating a hero of their own. This unit is designed to have three activities, though it lends itself to extension. I would expect this unit to last 5 or 6 days in my classroom.