CASLI ASL Linguistics 3

Question 1

The distinction between ASL 'GIVE' directed toward the signer versus away from the signer demonstrates which morphological feature?

Accepted Answer

Directional (agreement) verb inflection

Answer

Directional verbs in ASL move between subject and object loci in signing space, incorporating both subject and object agreement simultaneously.

Question 2

Which non-manual signal in ASL marks a yes/no question?

Accepted Answer

Raised brows, widened eyes, and forward head tilt

Answer

Yes/no questions in ASL are marked by raised eyebrows, widened eyes, and a forward head tilt held through the question.

Question 3

In ASL phonology, a 'minimal pair' differs in exactly:

Accepted Answer

One parameter only

Answer

A minimal pair in ASL consists of two signs that differ in exactly one phonological parameter, proving that parameter is contrastive.

Question 4

The handshape used in the ASL number system from 1–5 and their role in classifier predicates best illustrates:

Accepted Answer

Iconicity and simultaneous morphological layering

Answer

Number handshapes double as classifiers representing thin objects or people, illustrating how iconic and morphological functions can co-exist in the same handshape.

Question 5

What is the term for the process by which two ASL signs blend into a single form, as in DEAF + CULTURE becoming a single fluid sign?

Accepted Answer

Compounding

Answer

Compounding in ASL combines two or more signs into a single lexical item, often with phonological reductions such as loss of repeated movement.

(CASLI) Center for the Assessment of Sign Language Interpretation Practice Test

(CASLI) Center for the Assessment of Sign Language Interpretation Practice Test

CASLI ASL Linguistics 3