Phonological Patterns in Sign Languages and Their Implications

This exam focuses on the phonological patterns unique to sign languages. It investigates the parameters that define signs, such as handshape, movement, location, and facial expressions, and how these features contribute to meaning and communication.

Understanding the phonology of sign languages provides critical insights into non-verbal communication and challenges traditional linguistic frameworks dominated by spoken language analysis. This approach highlights the necessity of recognizing diverse modalities in linguistic studies.

Candidates will be expected to articulate and analyze the distinct phonological elements of sign languages, demonstrating their impact on communication effectiveness and language structure during the verbal assessment.

Preparation should include familiarity with established phonological theories and an examination of how these theories can be applied specifically within the context of sign language.