Assam Higher Secondary Skill Subject Sign Language key terms

Signing words letter by letter using handshapes of a manual alphabet. It is used for names, places and words that have no established sign, and it links written spelling to signed communication.

A fixed set of hand configurations where each shape stands for one letter of a written alphabet. Learners must form each shape clearly and read it at a steady pace.

The particular arrangement of fingers, thumb and palm used to form a sign. Handshape is one of the core parameters that distinguish one sign from another.

The path, direction or repetition of the hands during a sign. Changing the movement can change meaning, as in signs that differ only by a straight versus circular motion.

The place on or near the body where a sign is produced, such as the forehead, chest or neutral space. Signs made at different locations can carry different meanings.

The direction the palm faces when a sign is made, for example upward, downward, inward or outward. Orientation is a meaningful parameter, not a cosmetic detail.

Meaningful signals produced by the face, head, eyes and body rather than the hands. They mark questions, negation, conditionals and intensity, and are essential for grammatical signing.

Use of eyebrows, eyes, mouth and cheeks to carry grammatical and emotional information. Raised brows may signal a yes/no question, while furrowed brows often accompany wh-questions.

A mouth pattern, often a silent word-like shape, that accompanies a sign and forms part of its meaning. Mouthing must match the sign; wrong mouthing can confuse the message.

Non-manual signals that show a sentence is a question. Yes/no questions typically use raised eyebrows and a forward head tilt; wh-questions use lowered brows and a head tilt.

A question asking for information, using signs such as who, what, where, when, why or how. In many sign languages the wh-sign appears at the end of the sentence with lowered brows.

A common sign language sentence pattern in which the topic is signed first, then a comment about it. For example, the object may come before the action that affects it.

The sequence in which signs are arranged in a sentence. Sign languages often use subject-object-verb or topic-comment order rather than the spoken-language order of the surrounding community.

The rule system of a sign language, covering sentence order, use of space, verb agreement and non-manual marking. It is a full natural grammar, not a signed copy of spoken sentences.

Using points and locations in signing space to refer to people, places or objects already mentioned. Once a referent is placed, later pointing back to that spot refers to the same entity.

The area in front of the signer's body where signs are produced and where referents can be located. Consistent use of this space keeps a narrative clear and easy to follow.

A handshape that represents a category of object or how it moves and is handled, such as a vehicle or a person. Classifiers describe shape, size, movement and arrangement.

A storytelling technique where the signer shifts body position or gaze to portray a character speaking or acting. It signals reported speech and shows who is doing what.

Acting out a character's actions, expressions or viewpoint within a signed narrative. It makes stories vivid and is a recognised feature of skilled expressive signing.

Producing signs clearly and fluently for others to understand. It requires correct handshape, location and movement, plus suitable facial expression and eye contact.

Understanding signs produced by another person. It depends on watching the whole signer, including face and body, and on asking for clarification when a sign is missed.

A polite way to check or repair understanding during a signed conversation, such as asking the signer to repeat, slow down or spell a word again.

Brief signals such as nodding, head shakes or small facial movements that show a listener is following the message. It keeps conversation flowing without interrupting the signer.

Looking at the signer's face and eyes during communication. It is central to Deaf etiquette because looking away breaks the visual channel and can appear rude.

Acceptable ways to draw a Deaf person's attention, such as waving in their line of sight, tapping a shoulder or flashing room lights. Shouting or throwing objects is inappropriate.

Accepted manners within Deaf communities, including how to get attention, how to move between signing people, and how to address a Deaf person directly rather than their interpreter.

A trained professional who conveys meaning between a signed and a spoken language. Speak to the Deaf person, not to the interpreter, and allow time for the interpretation.

Removing barriers so Deaf people can take part fully, for example through interpreters, captioned videos, visual fire alarms and clear sightlines in classrooms and public spaces.

The shared language, values, stories, art and social norms of Deaf communities. It is a cultural identity, not a medical condition, and is often written with a capital D.

A group of Deaf and hard of hearing people, plus allies, who share sign language and support one another. Members may meet through schools, clubs, associations and online groups.

Capital D Deaf usually refers to cultural identity and sign language use; lowercase deaf typically refers to the audiological condition. Context and self-identification should guide usage.

Discrimination or prejudice against Deaf people based on the belief that hearing is superior. Recognising audism helps learners avoid pitying attitudes and respect signed communication.

Describes a person with partial hearing loss who may use speech, hearing aids, sign language or a combination. Avoid assuming one communication preference for every individual.

A sign whose form visibly resembles its meaning, such as a sign suggesting drinking. Iconicity helps beginners guess meaning, but many signs are not transparent and must be learned.

A sign whose form does not obviously picture its meaning and must be memorised. Most vocabulary in a sign language is arbitrary, so guessing from gestures is unreliable.

The core everyday signs a beginner needs, covering greetings, family, numbers, colours, food, time, feelings and common actions. These are practised until they are produced clearly and recognised quickly.

A collected record of a learner's practical work, such as signed video recordings, self-assessment notes and observation checklists. It provides evidence of progress for internal assessment.

School-based evaluation of practical skills, including signing fluency, comprehension and cultural awareness, usually judged against a checklist or rubric. It complements written examinations.

A scoring guide listing criteria and performance levels for a signing task, such as clarity, grammar and facial expression. Sharing the rubric helps learners know what good signing looks like.