Diagrams as interaction: The interpersonal (meta)function of geometrical diagrams

Abstract

Diagrams are part an parcel of mathematics. However, the main stream among mathematician is prejudiced against the use of diagrams in public. In my PhD study, I consider diagrams as a semiotic mode ofrepresentation and communication which enable us to construct mathematical meaning. I suggest a descriptive 'trifunctional' framework that can be used as a tool to analyse the kinds of meanings afforded by diagrams in mathematical discourse. In this paper, only the interpersonal function of the diagrammatic mode is considered with illustrations. In specific, I consider labels, neat-rough diagrams and modality as realisations of that function. Concluding remarks with challenges are presented at the end of the paper