Sound Languge Articulators

Question 1

What are the two main categories of signed language articulators?

Answer 1

1. Manual articulators- described in terms of joint & movement
2. Non-manual articulators-complex and varied movements

Question 2

What are the six main joints of signed languages?

Answer 2

1. Shoulder
2. Elbow
3. Radioulnar
4. Wrist
5. Base knuckles
6. Interphelangeal

Question 3

What are the main movements of signed language articulators?

Answer 3

• Abduction (moving away from the body) & adduction (moving towards the body)- from a front facing perspective
• Extension (moving arm downwards) & flexion (moving arm upwards)- from a side facing perspective
• Rotation- at the elbow

Question 4

What are the 4 parameters of signed language articulators?

Answer 4

1. Handshake
2. Orientation
3. Location
4. Movement