Sign Language Sign Language Grammar and Syntax 3

Question 1

What is the role of 'indexing' (pointing) in ASL grammar?

Accepted Answer

It establishes or refers to a referent in signing space

Answer

Indexing (pointing to a location in signing space) establishes referents and pronouns, replacing the need to repeat a noun sign.

Question 2

How are plural nouns typically formed in ASL?

Accepted Answer

Repeating or sweeping the noun sign across space

Answer

Plurality in ASL is often shown by repeating or sweeping the noun sign across different locations in signing space.

Question 3

What is 'constructed action' in ASL discourse?

Accepted Answer

Demonstrating an action with your own body to depict what a character did

Answer

Constructed action involves the signer using their own body to enact or demonstrate the actions of people or objects in a narrative.

Question 4

How is future tense typically indicated in ASL?

Accepted Answer

Both B and C are correct

Answer

Future tense in ASL is indicated either by leaning/signing forward in space or by placing a time sign (TOMORROW, NEXT WEEK) at the start of a sentence.

Question 5

What does 'simultaneous communication' (SimCom) refer to?

Accepted Answer

Signing and speaking at the same time

Answer

SimCom (simultaneous communication) refers to the practice of signing and speaking English at the same time, often critiqued for distorting both languages.

Sign Language Practice Test

Sign Language Practice Test

Sign Language Sign Language Grammar and Syntax 3