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

Black ASL developed as a distinct dialect due to the segregation of Deaf schools in the South prior to the 1960s, resulting in unique vocabulary, grammar, and cultural norms.

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

Research by Ceil Lucas and colleagues found that Black ASL signers tend to use a larger signing space and have a higher proportion of two-handed signs compared to white ASL signers.

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

Home signs are self-developed gestural systems with no formal sign language base; the CDI must take time to establish shared referents and meaning with the consumer rather than imposing a formal sign system.

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

International Sign is a contact variety—not a fully standardized language—used at events like Deaflympics and World Federation of the Deaf congresses where Deaf individuals from many countries communicate.

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

Consumers with MLS have limited exposure to any formal language, so CDIs must use multi-modal strategies—gesture, mime, drawing, and basic signs—to bridge the communication gap.

CDI - Certified Deaf Interpreter Practice Test

CDI - Certified Deaf Interpreter Practice Test

CDI Specialized Communication Modalities and Linguistic Diversity