Above in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “above” in Auslan is used to indicate something that is located at a higher position than another object. It’s commonly used in everyday conversations, whether you’re discussing locations, objects, or even concepts that are metaphorically above something else.

How to Sign “Above”

1. Start with your dominant hand open, palm facing down. The fingers should be extended and together.
2. Position your hand at about waist level in front of your body.
3. Move your hand upward in a smooth motion, maintaining the open handshape. Your palm should continue to face down as you raise it.
4. As you perform the movement, raise your eyebrows slightly to indicate that you are discussing something that is above.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may forget to keep their palm facing down, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Not moving the hand high enough can lead to confusion about what is being referred to as “above.”
• Failing to use appropriate facial expressions can make the sign less clear and engaging.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one, useful in counting objects.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten, often used in various contexts.
• 100 – The sign for one hundred, helpful in discussions about amounts.
• 12 – The sign for twelve, common in numerical conversations.
• 15 – The sign for fifteen, frequently used in counting.

Using “Above” in Everyday Conversations

The sign “Above” can be seamlessly integrated into various everyday conversations. Here are a few example sentences to illustrate its usage:

1. MY HAT ABOVE MY HEAD.

   In this situation, a person might be talking about a hat that is placed on top of their head. It’s common when discussing personal items or accessories.

2. THE BIRD ABOVE TREE.

   This could come up when someone is pointing out a bird flying over a tree while outdoors, making it a natural part of conversations in nature.

3. THE SIGN ABOVE DOOR.

   This phrase might be used when directing someone’s attention to a sign located above a door, such as in a shop or office.

These examples show how “Above” can help convey spatial relationships clearly in Auslan.

Cultural Notes

In the Australian Deaf community, the use of signs like “Above” reflects a shared understanding of spatial awareness that is often more pronounced than in hearing communities. This sign can be used not just to indicate physical position but also in metaphorical contexts, such as discussing higher social statuses or aspirations.

Dialect variations can occur between northern and southern regions of Australia. While the sign for “Above” generally remains consistent, the intensity of movement or orientation may vary slightly based on regional preferences. For example, some northern Auslan users might use a more pronounced upward movement compared to their southern counterparts.

Tips for Learning This Sign

Practicing the sign “Above” can be both fun and effective with these concrete tips:

• Mirror Practice: Stand in front of a mirror and practice the sign. This allows you to visually confirm the accuracy of your movements.
• Watch for Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to facial expressions and body language that accompany the sign. These non-manual features add depth and context to your signing.
• Use in Short Signed Sentences: Incorporate “Above” into simple phrases with other signs. Regular use in context will help reinforce your memory of the sign.

By consistently practicing these strategies, you’ll find that “Above” becomes a natural part of your Auslan vocabulary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “above” in a sentence?

You can say, “The bird is above the tree,” signing “BIRD” “ABOVE” “TREE” to convey the message clearly.

Are there regional variations for this sign?

While the sign is generally consistent, some regions may have subtle variations in movement or facial expressions.

What signs are similar to “above”?

Signs like “over” or “on top” may express similar concepts, but they have specific nuances that differentiate them.

How does this compare to BSL?

In BSL, the sign for “above” may look different, with distinct hand shapes or movements, reflecting the unique characteristics of British Sign Language.

What are some tips for teaching this sign?

Encourage learners to practice the movement in front of a mirror and focus on using proper facial expressions to enhance understanding.

Can “above” be used in metaphorical contexts?

Yes, “above” can describe abstract ideas, like feeling “above” in mood or status, making it versatile in conversations.