Icons, Symbols, and Linguistic Functions in Textual Analysis

Icons, Symbols, and Signs

Icon: Maintains a relationship with reality. Examples: tree, photography, painting.

Symbol: Has no resemblance to reality. Examples: numbers, letters.

Sign: Represents a cause-effect relationship. Example: Dark, cloudy skies indicate rain.

Linguistic Functions

Referential Function: Focuses on objects and the external world.

Emotive Function: Conveys the speaker’s attitude and emotions.

Conative Function: Focuses on the listener and aims to influence them.

Phatic Function: Establishes and maintains communication.

Metalinguistic Function: Uses language to discuss language itself.

Poetic Function: Emphasizes the artistic and aesthetic qualities of language.

Textual Properties

Consistency

Refers to the logical connection of ideas in a text.

Cohesion

Refers to the grammatical and lexical links between elements in a text.

Correction

Ensures the text adheres to the rules of grammar and spelling.

Adjustment

Refers to the adaptation of language to the context and audience.

Cataphora and Anaphora

Cataphora: A reference to something that appears later in the text.

Anaphora: A reference to something that appears earlier in the text.

Text Types and Structures

Argumentative Text

Aims to persuade the reader of a particular viewpoint. It typically includes a thesis statement and supporting arguments.

Expository Text

Presents factual information or explains a concept. It can be informational or specialized and should have a clear and organized structure.

Narrative Text

Tells a story, either fictional or factual. It can be narrated in the first, second, or third person and may employ different narrative techniques.