Multimodality in its most basic form is the use of
multiple modes together. It is an assumption of communication and social
symbolism. Multimodality uses modes such as textual, spatial and visual
resources (for a specific reason) to create a specific message.
Modes refer to the conventions, variety and purpose
of writing, which one needs to produce a message. Modes allow us to escape from
using language for everything. Modes are resources where about we can make
meaningful material that is evident. Different modes contribute different
elements such as sound, feeling and even smell to keep from making language too
general.
According to Kress, modes are used for different
kinds of things. He asks which mode is carrying the most informational load.
Which mode has been specialised for what kinds of purposes? Modes can be
stationary or of moving imagery and come together in a certain way to best
exemplify a certain meaning. Modes should also be arranged according to
interest, for example which is most informative and/or according to formality.
There is a reason for spacing, in agreement with Kress, and must be attended to
according to which is most prominent.
Wysocki agrees with Kress on the need to encourage
a rhetorical focus in our teachings. Kress’ approach helps people work within
disciplines or materials to successfully create and convey a message, but
Wysocki stresses or expands this approach. Kress questions what is available
when word and imagery is used, as bound reasonably and honourably with time and
space. Space between words has developed over time. How we use space on a pages
affect how we read and understand.
Wysocki views some of Kress’ statements as
incomplete. We need to consider how we use the spaces and not just one time
that can be shaped on pages. We need to question how we comprehend the spaces,
to use different or more powerful spaces. Wysocki wants to understand all the
possibilities- not just what is gained and lost through communication.
According to him, we should also think of what might not be expected by a
particular audience in a particular context when composing a message.
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