Essence of Mathematical Objects and their Representations: Analyses of the Classical Semiotic Triangle’s Implications in Geometry

The main purpose of this study is to introduce a theoretical framework based on classical semiotic triangle reference-signifier-signified. this theorical framework is used to examine the relationship between drawings and mathematical objects. in the study, prospective teachers are placed in a transition from drawings towards dynamic drawings. their process of interpreting variations in a geometrical object’s signifier in a dynamic geometry environment; changes in their signified are analyzed in terms of relations between reference and signifier. the study is a qualitative research and the experimental part consists of two times. in the first time, realized in paper and pencil environment, geometrical drawing activities concerning the concept tangent line to a circle is directed to prospective teachers. in the second time, prospective teachers is asked to realize the same drawing activities in a dynamic geometry environment. results of the research reveal that as signifiers, drawings in paper and pencil environment are insufficient; but working on dynamic drawings provides rapprochements in the signified of the tangent line concept towards the related reference.