Language And Media: A Case Of Lexical Features Of Masoud Kipanya’s Cartoons In Meaning Presentation

ABSTRACT

This study sought to investigate the lexical features of Masoud Kipanya‟s cartoons in meaning presentation. Specifically the study aimed at; analyzing the nature of lexical features used in Masoud Kipanya‟s cartoons; explaining the semantic features of those lexical features; and examining how those lexical features in Masoud Kipanya‟s cartoons facilitated in presenting meaning.

The study adopted a qualitative research approach. The sample size of this study was one hundred and fifty (150) cartoons collected from Mwananchi newspaper. The instrument of data collection was documentary review. The Lexical and Cognitive Models Theory which highlights on context in lexical concept realization was used to analyze the lexical features of Masoud Kipanya‟s cartoons.

The analysis of cartoon text revealed that acronyms, loanwords, code switches, numerals contractions, interjections and semantic extension of words were the major lexical or linguistic features of Masoud Kipanya‟s cartoons in meaning presentation. Non linguistic features such as caricatures, bolding and colouring were also discovered to be worth discussing because they played a great role in presenting meaning of linguistic features listed above.

The study concludes by suggesting further research to be conducted on how the use of cartoons as instructional materials can provide linguistic input aimed at facilitating language learning and acquisition among English second language students.