How Many Different Versions of Sign Language Are There for English-Speaking Countries?
Sign languages used by English-speaking communities are not just variations of 'English on the hands'; they are independent languages with their own unique grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. Here, we explore the diversity of sign languages, focusing on prominent ones and explaining why they are separate entities from the spoken English language.
Introduction to Sign Languages in English-Speaking Countries
English-speaking countries are home to several distinct sign languages, each with its own structure and vocabulary. These sign languages have evolved organically and are not necessarily mutually intelligible with each other.
Notable Sign Languages
1. American Sign Language (ASL)
ASL is primarily used in the United States and parts of Canada. It possesses its unique grammar and syntax that distinguishes it from spoken English. ASL is not directly related to any other sign language and is a fully developed language in its own right.
British Sign Language (BSL)
BSL is used in the United Kingdom, and it differs from ASL. BSL has its own signs and grammatical rules, making it a distinct language. It is also not directly related to ASL or any other sign language in English-speaking countries.
Australian Sign Language (Auslan)
Auslan is the sign language used in Australia. It is closely related to BSL but has its own unique signs and structure. Auslan is not derived from or directly related to ASL.
New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)
NZSL is the main sign language used in New Zealand. It is influenced by both BSL and Auslan, reflecting the cultural and linguistic diversity of the region. It is an independent language, not a mere variation of ASL or BSL.
Irish Sign Language (ISL)
ISL, used in Ireland, has its own unique signs and is not related to ASL or BSL. It is an independent sign language with its own distinct grammar and syntax.
Canadian Sign Language (CSL)
While ASL is widely used in Canada, there are regional variations and distinct forms of sign language. Canadian sign languages cater to the unique cultural and linguistic contexts of different regions within the country.
Regional Dialects and Community-Specific Sign Languages
In addition to the major sign languages discussed above, there are regional dialects and community-specific sign languages that vary significantly within and across countries. These variations reflect the diversity of communities and the unique linguistic needs within each region.
Differences Between Signed and Spoken Languages
Sign languages are not merely ‘English on the hands.’ They are independent languages with their own cultural and linguistic traditions. For example, coded systems like Signed Exact English are not mutually intelligible with ASL, BSL, or Auslan, and these spoken languages are not mutually intelligible with each other.
Manual Coding Systems
Some English-speaking countries have specific methods of coding English manually. These include:
Fingerspelling
Fingerspelling is perhaps the most obvious method of manual coding. It involves spelling out words using the manual alphabet. This system is universal and can be used in various sign languages, although the specific manual alphabets may differ.
Initialized Signs
Initialized signs combine elements of the manual alphabet with signs from the sign language itself. For instance, to fingerspell the word ‘organization’ in ASL, one would use the manual alphabet sign for ‘O’ and then use the ASL sign for ‘group.’ This method, however, would not work in BSL due to the differences in manual alphabet usage.
Conclusion
The diversity of sign languages in English-speaking countries emphasizes the independence of these languages from spoken English. Whether it is ASL in the United States or ISL in Ireland, each sign language has its unique history, grammar, and cultural significance. Understanding this diversity is crucial for effective communication and cultural understanding among deaf communities globally.