Summary
This article explains how the Standard Model of Speech Production can be adapted to understand sign language, focusing on equivalent linguistic units.
Applying the Speech Production Model to Sign Language
Highlights
Sign Selection
In sign language, the 'word selection' stage involves choosing specific signs that communicate the intended meaning, similar to how spoken language users select words.
Morpheme Representation
Morphemes in sign language are conveyed through meaningful changes in handshape, movement, facial expressions, or spatial modifications, which ultimately alter a sign's meaning.
Phoneme Equivalents in Sign Language
The 'phoneme' stage in sign language corresponds to its basic parameters: handshape, location, movement, palm orientation, and non-manual markers like facial expressions. Unlike spoken language, sign languages do not utilize true syllables.