Five Parameters of Signing in ASL

Five Parameters of Signing in ASL

The five parameters of signing in American Sign Language (ASL) are crucial for effective communication. Each sign consists of these parameters, and they can significantly change the meaning of a sign based on how they are utilized.

1. Hand Shape

  • Definition: The shape formed by the hands during the sign.
  • Examples of Hand Shapes:
    • L hands
    • O hands
    • V hands
  • Importance: The hand shape is fundamental as slight changes can completely alter the meaning of a sign.
    • Example:
    • The sign for "impossible" uses a Y hand shape.
    • The sign for "school" utilizes a 5 hand shape.

2. Palm Orientation

  • Definition: The direction in which the palm faces during the sign.
  • Variations of Palm Orientation:
    • Facing out
    • Facing down
    • Facing towards oneself
  • Illustration of Importance:
    • Example:
    • The sign for "maybe" has palms facing up with a back-and-forth movement.
    • Changing palm orientation to down results in the sign for "balance".

3. Movement

  • Definition: The action associated with a sign, which may or may not involve motion.
  • Examples of Movement:
    • Tapping once for "sit"
    • Tapping twice for "chair"
  • Key Takeaway: Movement can also modify the meaning of a sign significantly.

4. Location

  • Definition: The spatial positioning of the hands in relation to the signer’s body.
  • Importance of Location: The same hand shape and movement can yield different signs based on where the sign is executed in reference to the body.
  • Examples of Location Variations:
    • "apple" is signed near the chin.
    • "onion" is signed near the eye.
  • Difference: The only parameter changing is the location of the sign, emphasizing its impact on meaning.

5. Non-manual Markers

  • Definition: These include facial expressions and body language elements that accompany signs.
  • Influence on Meaning: Non-manual markers can dramatically change the interpretation of a sign even when all other parameters remain unchanged.
  • Example:
    • The sign for "understand" involves pushing the index finger up while raising the eyebrows and nodding to indicate understanding.
    • Conversely, for "don’t understand", all parameters are identical, but the facial expression changes significantly (e.g., furrowing the eyebrows).

Conclusion

  • Significance of Parameters: Understanding and accurately executing the five parameters of signing is essential for clear communication in ASL.

  • Practice Recommended: Regular practice of these parameters will enhance signing skills and ensure clarity in the messages conveyed.

  • Final Note: Mastery of these parameters allows for nuanced expressions and proper understanding of ASL, emphasizing their importance in effective signing.