By Lauren Fitzpatrick
Australia
Australian Sign Language, or AUSLAN, is the sign language used by Australian deaf people. It evolved from British Sign Language (BSL) but is also influenced by American and Irish sign languages. There are two main dialects of Auslan: the North, developed in Sydney, and the South, developed in Melbourne. Each Auslan sign is composed of five main components: hand shape, orientation, location, movement and facial expression. These components become clear as beginning signers are able to practice with experienced signers.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Things You'll Need:
- Copy of Auslan alphabet
Visual aids (Internet access or Auslan vocabulary book)
Practice partner who is learning or fluent in Auslan
- Copy of Auslan alphabet
- Visual aids (Internet access or Auslan vocabulary book)
- Practice partner who is learning or fluent in Auslan
Step 1
Learn the two-handed Auslan alphabet by studying a book, website or poster. Practice the letters until you have memorized them all.
Step 2
Consistently practice spelling out various words such as household items. When you are comfortable with fingerspelling, you can spell out words in conversation that you do not yet know the sign for.
Step 3
Study and practice key signing--basic nouns and adjectives of Auslan. This will begin to develop your signed vocabulary so that you can advance beyond fingerspelling.
Step 4
Refer to websites such as SignPlanet or Auslan vocabulary books to add new words and phrases to your signed vocabulary.
Step 5
Have regular signed conversations with your practice partner, during which you can apply your knowledge. This person should be an experienced Auslan signer and will preferably be deaf himself.
Step 6
Enroll in a course to further develop fluency in Auslan. Course providers can be found on the SignPlanet website at www.signplanet.net/AuslanClasses/AuslanClasses.asp.
About the Author:
Lauren Fitzpatrick was the official blogger for Busabout Europe in 2008, and has contributed to Transitions Abroad. Her subjects of interest include international work and travel, fitness, and deaf culture. She holds a Master of Arts in travel writing from Kingston University and a Bachelor of Arts in communications from Indiana University.
Photo Credits:
Flickr user Mr. Toaster http://www.flickr.com/photos/o-mer/87917344/
