CDI Specialized Communication Modalities and Linguistic Diversity

Question 1

What is Black American Sign Language (Black ASL)?

Accepted Answer

A distinct variety of ASL that developed in historically segregated Black Deaf schools

Answer

A formal ASL dialect used in legal settings by Black Deaf individuals

Answer

A simplified signing system created for Deaf individuals with limited ASL exposure

Answer

An internationally recognized sign language used across African nations

Question 2

How does Black ASL typically differ from mainstream ASL in terms of signing space?

Accepted Answer

Black ASL uses a larger signing space and more two-handed signs

Answer

Black ASL uses a smaller, more compact signing space

Answer

Black ASL restricts signing to the area below the chin

Answer

Black ASL eliminates the use of non-manual markers

Question 3

What is a 'home sign' system, and how should a CDI approach a consumer who uses one?

Accepted Answer

An idiosyncratic gestural system developed without formal sign language input; the CDI should work closely with the consumer to establish shared meaning

Answer

A standardized sign system taught in residential schools; the CDI should use the school's curriculum

Answer

A simplified version of ASL used in home settings; the CDI should teach the consumer standard ASL during the interaction

Answer

A regionally specific ASL variant; the CDI should use a regional interpreter as a relay

Question 4

What is International Sign (IS), and in what context would a CDI most likely encounter it?

Accepted Answer

A contact variety of signing used in international Deaf events and conferences among signers of different national sign languages

Answer

A fully codified signed language approved by the United Nations for global Deaf communication

Answer

An ASL-based system developed for interpreting at U.S. embassies abroad

Answer

A simplified signed pidgin used exclusively for DeafBlind international travelers

Question 5

When a CDI encounters a Deaf consumer with minimal language skills (MLS), which approach is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Use gesture, mime, drawing, and simplified signs to establish shared meaning and facilitate communication

Answer

Refer the consumer to a hearing interpreter who specializes in MLS to avoid role confusion

Answer

Use highly idiomatic ASL to model correct language and encourage the consumer to adapt

Answer

Decline the assignment and request a DeafBlind interpreter instead

Question 6

Which of the following best describes 'contact signing' (sometimes called Pidgin Signed English or PSE)?

Accepted Answer

A blend of ASL signs and English word order that emerges when ASL users interact with English speakers

Answer

A fully developed language with its own grammar used by children of Deaf adults (CODAs)

Answer

A form of fingerspelling used when no ASL sign exists for an English word

Answer

An invented system of sign codes that map exactly onto English morphemes

Question 7

Why is it important for a CDI to have awareness of regional sign language variations within the United States?

Accepted Answer

Different regions may have distinct signs for the same concept, and misunderstanding regional signs can impede accurate message transfer

Answer

Regional variations are only relevant for hearing interpreters and do not affect CDI practice

Answer

The RID requires CDIs to certify in each regional dialect separately before interpreting in that area

Answer

Regional variations exist only in fingerspelling conventions and have minimal impact on comprehension