Auslan (sign language) 

Welcome back to a new exciting year for Auslan (sign language) learning.  We have been using Auslan in the school for four years and students love learning the value of having another way to communicate with their peers and in the community.  

For new families, here is some background information.

What is Auslan?

Auslan is Australian Sign Language, the native language of the Australian Deaf community, and is a visual-spatial, natural language with its own grammar and vocabulary. Auslan has linguistic elements, such as hand shapes (including orientation, location and movement), non-manual features (including eye gaze, facial expressions, arm, head and body postures) and fingerspelling. Auslan also has its own grammar, which is different from English. Auslan grammar is composed of precise hand shapes, facial expressions and body movements that convey concrete and abstract information. Key Word Sign is different to Auslan. Key Word Sign is a communication system using single Auslan signs to support spoken language for individuals with communication and language delays.

Benefits of Learning Auslan 

Incorporating Auslan into our school program has many benefits for both deaf and hearing children. Sign language can:

· enhance children’s educational and personal development

· increase memory retention and motion processing

· stimulate brain development and mental flexibility

· increase enjoyment in communicating for both hearing and deaf children.

Please feel free to pop into the library on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning to say hello or if you have any questions.