You may wonder, what makes a sign a sign? Since ASL is a visual-gestural language, signs are created to give context and understanding. In order to accurately relay communication through signs in ASL, a sign must follow each of the following five parameters in order for it to be considered a true sign used in ASL.
Although not considered a true parameter of sign language, there is a space where sign language must be used by a signer. This critical space is important as it gives understanding of what a sign means and keeps signs in the vision of the person you are communicating with. The signing space is the space that is just above your head and extends down to your waist and just beyond the sides of your body. Keeping signs in the space helps both the signer and person being signed to understand what is being communicated.
Parameter 1: Handshape
For a sign to have meaning, it must have a shape, or handshape. The handshape must be consistently used for each sign but it should be noted that handshapes can change throughout the sign.
Parameter 2: Palm Orientation
Palm Orientation is your hands position relative to your body. Signs may be used where the palm faces the body or towards the ground or even facing up. Consistency in the orientation along with handshape gives meaning to a sign.
If you would like to learn more about American Sign Language, please consider purchasing Barron's American Sign
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