Use language reference sources effectively to confirm or clarify the meaning of signs used in all types of complex social interactions

Use language reference sources effectively to confirm or clarify the meaning of signs used in all types of complex social interactions

Understanding Reference Sources

  • Gain knowledge of varied language reference sources associated with British Sign Language (BSL), which will be encountered in different complex social interactions.
  • Familiarise yourself with a wide range of BSL dictionaries whether they come in form of books, online platforms, or mobile apps. Many of these tools provide visual examples to support your understanding.
  • Be aware of signed phrase books, which can provide good examples of how specific phrases should be signed within a range of contexts.

Using Reference Sources to Confirm Signs

  • Recognise the need to confirm signs: at times, a sign might look different due to dialectical or personal variations. Reference sources come handy in such situations.
  • Understand that reference sources help in standardising the signs - they provide you a version of the sign that is widely recognised and accepted.
  • Develop the habit to cross-reference across multiple sources to ensure accuracy and reliability of the signs being used.

Using Reference Sources to Clarify Signs

  • Learn how to clarify signs from reference sources. It is essential when the usage or meaning of a sign seems unclear or seems to have multiple interpretations.
  • Understand that some signs or expressions may change their meaning based on the context or the sentence structure used. This is where contextual information provided by reference sources is very helpful.
  • Understand that reference sources can also help in clarifying non-manual features, including facial expressions and body language that accompany signs.

Implementing Reference Sources in Complex Social Interactions

  • Recognise the efficacy and necessity of using reference sources while engaging in complex social interactions. You might encounter unfamiliar signs, or signs used with different meanings based on the social context.
  • Elevate your ability to contribute effectively in social interactions by using reference sources to understand specialised vocabulary or discipline-specific signs.
  • Learn to adapt and adjust your sign language by referencing to the cultural and regional variations that can be discovered through studying reference sources deeply.

Using language reference sources effectively is essential for any BSL user to ensure their signing is accurate and culturally appropriate. They reinforce your learning, help you confirm or clarify signs, and enrich your sign language vocabulary in the long run.