05 Track 5

Unit 8

Language and Communication

Chapter 2

Sign Language

Page 103

Sign Language

Because deaf people cannot hear, they have special ways of communicating. For example, they can learn to understand what someone is saying by looking at the mouth of the speaker.

This is called lipreading. Also, speaking is very difficult for the deaf, because they cannot hear their own voices.

However, it is possible with special training. According to many deaf people all around the world, the most practical and popular way of communicating is with sign language.

In many ways, sign language is similar to spoken language. The words of sign language are made with signs, which are formed with movements of the hands, face, and body.

As with words, each sign has a different meaning and can be combined to form sentences. Signed languages also have their own grammar.

The alphabet of sign language his special hand signs that stand for letters; they make spelling possible. The signs combine to form a rich language that can express the same thoughts, feelings, and ideas as any spoken language.

And just as people from different countries speak different languages, most countries have their own variety of sign language.

In addition to knowing sign language, it is also helpful to know something about how deaf people communicate.

Since they rely so much on actions, deaf people are generally not very formal when they “talk,” and may touch your arm or shoulder a lot to make sure you know what they’re saying.

It is not seen as rude among deaf people to lightly touch someone you do not know to get their attention. It’s also okay to wave your hands or hit the table or floor. Also, lots of eye contact is necessary.

There are many ways to learn a few signs. Community colleges often teach introductory classes. For self-learners, bookstores and libraries have books for learning sign language.

There are also instructional videos on the Internet, with actors demonstrating signs and performing interesting stories and conversations for you to see. With practice, you’ll soon get the hang of this useful method of communicating!