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Ted Supalla
In this course, we will look at how people make sign language work—and to understand this, we have to analyze the actual language. In this course, Professor Ted Supalla will walk you through examples of how alterations within a sign can change its meaning and how this can affect word order in a sentence. This is discussed under the broad term “structure”, because a number of things can influence signed language grammar. Many factors have to be considered, which is why we have to take a layered, cumulative approach here.
Read more
In this course, we will look at how people make sign language work—and to understand this, we have to analyze the actual language. In this course, Professor Ted Supalla will walk you through examples of how alterations within a sign can change its meaning and how this can affect word order in a sentence. This is discussed under the broad term “structure”, because a number of things can influence signed language grammar. Many factors have to be considered, which is why we have to take a layered, cumulative approach here.
Read more
In this course, we will look at how people make sign language work—and to understand this, we have to analyze the actual language. In this course, Professor Ted Supalla will walk you through examples of how alterations within a sign can change its meaning and how this can affect word order in a sentence. This is discussed under the broad term “structure”, because a number of things can influence signed language grammar. Many factors have to be considered, which is why we have to take a layered, cumulative approach here.
What you'll learn
- State the role of facial expression in the syntax of ASL
- Define "spatialized syntax"
- Name at least 2 categories of spatial verbs in ASL
- State the relationship between spatial inflection and linear sign order for sentences
- Define "frozen sign" and its role in ASL lexicon
- Name at least two characteristics for how such loan signs can accept inflections
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/qqtqpf/sign
What's inside
Learning objectives
- State the role of facial expression in the syntax of asl
- Define "spatialized syntax"
- Name at least 2 categories of spatial verbs in asl
- State the relationship between spatial inflection and linear sign order for sentences
- Define "frozen sign" and its role in asl lexicon
- Name at least two characteristics for how such loan signs can accept inflections
- State the role of facial expression in the syntax of asl
- Define "spatialized syntax"
- Name at least 2 categories of spatial verbs in asl
- State the relationship between spatial inflection and linear sign order for sentences
- Define "frozen sign" and its role in asl lexicon
- Name at least two characteristics for how such loan signs can accept inflections
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Geared for learners with no background in sign language
Introduces spatialized syntax, a core concept in ASL
Delves into facial expression as a crucial element of ASL syntax
Facilitates understanding of frozen signs and their role in ASL
Lays the foundation for further exploration of ASL structure
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Reviews summary
In-depth asl linguistic structure
According to students, this course offers an in-depth, academic exploration of American Sign Language (ASL) structure, making it highly valuable for linguists and advanced ASL learners. Learners consistently praise Professor Ted Supalla's expertise and clear lectures, which break down complex concepts like spatialized syntax and facial expression roles. While it provides an essential theoretical framework, it is not suitable for beginners or those seeking conversational fluency, as it requires a strong linguistics background. Some note its primarily theoretical focus, wishing for more practical application.
The instructor, Professor Supalla, is highly knowledgeable and effective.
"Professor Supalla's expertise shines through every lecture. This course is essential for anyone serious about understanding the underlying science of ASL."
"Highly recommend for linguists and advanced ASL students... The explanations of facial expressions' role and different verb categories were extremely clear. The professor is a true expert."
"The professor is knowledgeable, and his lectures were clear and well-organized."
Explores ASL grammar and structure in significant theoretical depth.
"This course exceeded my expectations! Professor Supalla breaks down complex linguistic concepts of ASL structure into understandable segments."
"Absolutely brilliant! The exploration of how subtle alterations in signs change meaning and affect word order was fascinating."
"Provides a comprehensive theoretical framework for ASL. The discussions on spatial inflection and linear sign order were particularly strong."
The course can be fast-paced, requiring repeated viewing for some.
"The professor is knowledgeable, but the pace can be quite fast when dealing with complex topics like spatial verbs."
"The pacing assumed a high level of prior knowledge. I learned a lot but had to rewatch lectures multiple times."
"My only minor critique is that some explanations could have been slightly more elaborated for learners without a prior strong linguistics background."
Focuses on academic theory rather than hands-on application.
"It's quite academic and theory-heavy, which I liked, but it means there isn't much practical application practice."
"Too theoretical and dry for me. I was hoping for more practical examples or ways to apply this knowledge to improve my ASL fluency."
"The course is very academic and provides a valuable resource for specialized study, though some hands-on analysis opportunities would have been nice."
Content assumes prior knowledge, making it less suitable for novices.
"It's not for beginners, but for those with some ASL background or linguistic interest, it's a gem."
"I found some parts difficult to follow without a stronger linguistics background. It's definitely not for general ASL learners."
"I came into this course with a good grasp of basic ASL, but struggled with the advanced linguistic concepts. It definitely requires a strong foundation in syntax."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Sign Language Science: Factors Contributing to Nature Structure with these
activities:
Read 'The Oxford Handbook of Deaf Studies, Language, and Education'
Show steps
Review the comprehensive 'The Oxford Handbook of Deaf Studies, Language, and Education' to gain a deeper understanding of the history, culture, and linguistics of deaf communities.
Show steps
-
Purchase или borrow a copy of 'The Oxford Handbook of Deaf Studies, Language, and Education'.
-
Set aside dedicated time for reading and studying the book.
-
Take notes and highlight key concepts and ideas.
-
Engage in discussions or online forums to share and discuss your insights from the book.
Organize Course Notes and Resources
Show steps
Compile and organize your course notes, materials, and other resources to create a comprehensive study guide or reference document.
Show steps
-
Review and gather all notes, handouts, and assignments from the course.
-
Organize the materials by topic or lesson.
-
Consider using a binder, digital note-taking app, or other organizational tools.
-
Include additional resources such as online videos, articles, or sign language dictionaries.
-
Review the organized materials regularly to reinforce learning.
Explore Spatialized Syntax in ASL
Show steps
Engage with online tutorials or videos that explore the concept of spatialized syntax in ASL, including its impact on word order and sentence structure.
Show steps
-
Search for online resources on spatialized syntax in ASL.
-
Select a tutorial or video that aligns with your learning style.
-
Follow the instructions and explanations provided in the tutorial.
-
Take notes and summarize the key concepts of spatialized syntax.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Analyze Sign Language Examples
Show steps
Practice analyzing sign language examples to understand how alterations within a sign can change its meaning and affect word order.
Browse courses on
Sign Language Grammar
Show steps
-
Review course materials on sign language structure.
-
Identify examples of sign language variations from videos or online resources.
-
Analyze the variations and their impact on meaning and word order.
Collaborate on Sign Language Projects
Show steps
Work with peers to create presentations or videos that demonstrate understanding of sign language structures and grammar.
Show steps
-
Form a study group with classmates interested in sign language.
-
Choose a topic related to sign language structure or grammar to explore.
-
Research the topic and gather information from course materials and other sources.
-
Develop a presentation or video that showcases your findings.
Develop a Sign Language Vocabulary Dictionary
Show steps
Create a comprehensive dictionary or glossary that covers the vocabulary and signs taught in the course, including their variations and nuances.
Show steps
-
Review course materials and make a list of signs and vocabulary.
-
Organize the signs into categories or themes.
-
Provide clear definitions and descriptions for each sign.
-
Include examples of how the signs are used in different contexts.
-
Consider incorporating images, videos, or online resources to enhance understanding.
Record Sign Language Presentations
Show steps
Create short video presentations that demonstrate your understanding of sign language concepts and vocabulary learned in the course.
Show steps
-
Choose a topic related to the course material you want to present.
-
Write a script or outline for your presentation.
-
Practice signing your presentation.
-
Record yourself signing the presentation using a video recording device.
-
Review and edit your recording to ensure clarity and effectiveness.
Read 'The Oxford Handbook of Deaf Studies, Language, and Education'
Show steps
Review the comprehensive 'The Oxford Handbook of Deaf Studies, Language, and Education' to gain a deeper understanding of the history, culture, and linguistics of deaf communities.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Purchase или borrow a copy of 'The Oxford Handbook of Deaf Studies, Language, and Education'.
- Set aside dedicated time for reading and studying the book.
- Take notes and highlight key concepts and ideas.
- Engage in discussions or online forums to share and discuss your insights from the book.
Organize Course Notes and Resources
Show steps
Compile and organize your course notes, materials, and other resources to create a comprehensive study guide or reference document.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review and gather all notes, handouts, and assignments from the course.
- Organize the materials by topic or lesson.
- Consider using a binder, digital note-taking app, or other organizational tools.
- Include additional resources such as online videos, articles, or sign language dictionaries.
- Review the organized materials regularly to reinforce learning.
Explore Spatialized Syntax in ASL
Show steps
Engage with online tutorials or videos that explore the concept of spatialized syntax in ASL, including its impact on word order and sentence structure.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for online resources on spatialized syntax in ASL.
- Select a tutorial or video that aligns with your learning style.
- Follow the instructions and explanations provided in the tutorial.
- Take notes and summarize the key concepts of spatialized syntax.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Analyze Sign Language Examples
Show steps
Practice analyzing sign language examples to understand how alterations within a sign can change its meaning and affect word order.
Browse courses on
Sign Language Grammar
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review course materials on sign language structure.
- Identify examples of sign language variations from videos or online resources.
- Analyze the variations and their impact on meaning and word order.
Collaborate on Sign Language Projects
Show steps
Work with peers to create presentations or videos that demonstrate understanding of sign language structures and grammar.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Form a study group with classmates interested in sign language.
- Choose a topic related to sign language structure or grammar to explore.
- Research the topic and gather information from course materials and other sources.
- Develop a presentation or video that showcases your findings.
Develop a Sign Language Vocabulary Dictionary
Show steps
Create a comprehensive dictionary or glossary that covers the vocabulary and signs taught in the course, including their variations and nuances.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review course materials and make a list of signs and vocabulary.
- Organize the signs into categories or themes.
- Provide clear definitions and descriptions for each sign.
- Include examples of how the signs are used in different contexts.
- Consider incorporating images, videos, or online resources to enhance understanding.
Record Sign Language Presentations
Show steps
Create short video presentations that demonstrate your understanding of sign language concepts and vocabulary learned in the course.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a topic related to the course material you want to present.
- Write a script or outline for your presentation.
- Practice signing your presentation.
- Record yourself signing the presentation using a video recording device.
- Review and edit your recording to ensure clarity and effectiveness.
Career center
Learners who complete Sign Language Science: Factors Contributing to Nature Structure will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Teacher of the Deaf or Hard of Hearing
Teacher of the Deaf or Hard of Hearing
Teachers of the Deaf or Hard of Hearing provide specialized instruction to deaf or hard of hearing students. This course would be highly beneficial for Teachers of the Deaf or Hard of Hearing, as it provides a deep understanding of the structure of sign language, including the role of facial expression, spatialized syntax, and spatial verbs. This knowledge is essential for effective teaching of deaf or hard of hearing students.
Sign Language Interpreter
Sign Language Interpreter
Sign Language Interpreters facilitate communication between deaf or hard of hearing individuals and hearing individuals. This course would be highly beneficial for Sign Language Interpreters, as it provides a deep understanding of the structure of sign language, including the role of facial expression, spatialized syntax, and spatial verbs. This knowledge is essential for accurate and effective interpretation.
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Pathologists evaluate and treat individuals with speech, language, and swallowing impairments. This course may be useful for Speech-Language Pathologists who want to learn more about the structure of sign language, as this knowledge can be helpful in assessing and treating individuals with hearing loss or other communication disorders. Additionally, speech language pathologists can work with sign language interpreters to ensure those who communicate solely in sign language are getting the best care possible.
Audiologist
Audiologist
Audiologists assess and treat individuals with hearing loss and other hearing-related disorders. This course may be useful for Audiologists who want to learn more about the structure of sign language, as this knowledge can be helpful in communicating with deaf or hard of hearing individuals. Audiologists can also work with sign language interpreters to ensure that those who communicate solely in sign language are getting the best care possible.
Linguist
Linguist
Linguists study the structure and use of language. This course may be useful for Linguists who want to specialize in sign language linguistics. The course provides a deep understanding of the structure of sign language, including the role of facial expression, spatialized syntax, and spatial verbs. This knowledge is essential for conducting research on sign language.
Psychologist
Psychologist
Psychologists study the mind and behavior. This course may be useful for Psychologists who want to specialize in the study of sign language and deafness. The course provides a deep understanding of the structure of sign language, including the role of facial expression, spatialized syntax, and spatial verbs. This knowledge is essential for conducting research on sign language and deafness.
Anthropologist
Anthropologist
Anthropologists study the behavior, origin, and development of humans. This course may be useful for Anthropologists who want to specialize in the study of sign language and Deaf culture. The course provides a deep understanding of the structure of sign language, including the role of facial expression, spatialized syntax, and spatial verbs. This knowledge is essential for conducting research on sign language and Deaf culture.
Sociologist
Sociologist
Sociologists study the development, structure, and functioning of human society. This course may be useful for Sociologists who want to specialize in the study of sign language and Deaf culture. The course provides a deep understanding of the structure of sign language, including the role of facial expression, spatialized syntax, and spatial verbs. This knowledge is essential for conducting research on sign language and Deaf culture.
Historian
Historian
Historians study the past. This course may be useful for Historians who want to specialize in the study of sign language and Deaf culture. The course provides a deep understanding of the historical development of sign language and Deaf culture.
Museum curator
Museum curator
Museum Curators plan and oversee the care and display of museum collections. This course may be useful for Museum Curators who want to specialize in the curation of sign language and Deaf culture artifacts. The course provides a deep understanding of the historical development of sign language and Deaf culture.
Archivist
Archivist
Archivists manage and preserve historical records. This course may be useful for Archivists who want to specialize in the preservation of sign language and Deaf culture artifacts. The course provides a deep understanding of the historical development of sign language and Deaf culture.
Librarian
Librarian
Librarians manage and provide access to information resources. This course may be useful for Librarians who want to specialize in providing services to deaf and hard of hearing patrons. The course provides a deep understanding of the structure of sign language, including the role of facial expression, spatialized syntax, and spatial verbs. This knowledge is essential for effectively serving deaf and hard of hearing patrons.
Disability Advocate
Disability Advocate
Disability Advocates promote the rights and well-being of people with disabilities. This course may be useful for Disability Advocates who want to specialize in advocating for the rights of deaf and hard of hearing people. The course provides a deep understanding of the structure of sign language, including the role of facial expression, spatialized syntax, and spatial verbs. This knowledge is essential for effectively advocating for the rights of deaf and hard of hearing people.
Social Worker
Social Worker
Social Workers help people navigate challenges and improve their well-being. This course may be useful for Social Workers who want to specialize in working with deaf and hard of hearing clients. The course provides a deep understanding of the structure of sign language, including the role of facial expression, spatialized syntax, and spatial verbs. This knowledge is essential for effectively working with deaf and hard of hearing clients.
Counselor
Counselor
Counselors help people with mental health issues and other life challenges. This course may be useful for Counselors who want to specialize in working with deaf and hard of hearing clients. The course provides a deep understanding of the structure of sign language, including the role of facial expression, spatialized syntax, and spatial verbs. This knowledge is essential for effectively working with deaf and hard of hearing clients.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/qqtqpf/sign
Reading list
We've selected eight books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Sign Language Science: Factors Contributing to Nature Structure.
Offers a comprehensive introduction to the structure of sign languages, including ASL. It provides a detailed overview of the major theoretical paradigms used to analyze sign language structure.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the morphology and lexical semantics of sign languages, including ASL. It explores the different ways that sign languages create and combine words.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the theoretical issues in sign language research, including ASL. It explores the different ways that sign languages have been studied and analyzed.
Provides a collection of cutting-edge research papers on the study of sign languages, including ASL. It offers new insights into the ways that sign languages are used and processed.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of deaf education, including the use of ASL. It offers insights into the different ways that deaf children can be educated.
This dictionary provides a comprehensive list of ASL signs and their English translations. It useful reference for students and professionals who are working with ASL.
Provides a comprehensive overview of ASL and the deaf community. It useful resource for people who are interested in learning more about ASL and deaf culture.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of deaf culture and the deaf community. It useful resource for people who are interested in learning more about deaf culture and history.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/qqtqpf/sign
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Effort
3 to 5 hours per week for 4 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Georgetown University
Instructor
Ted Supalla
Language
English
Transcript
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
American Sign Language Science. It's comprised of three courses:
- Sign Language Science: Factors Contributing to Nature Structure (viewing)
- Sign Language Science: Factors Contributing to Natural Learning
- Sign Language Science: Factors Contributing to Natural Change
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