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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.

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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

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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

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, 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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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'
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
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
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
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Show all seven activities
Analyze Sign Language Examples
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
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
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
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.

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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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
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.

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.
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.

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