Absolute Co Ordinates in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “absolute coordinates” in Auslan is used in contexts related to navigation, mapping, or discussing specific locations. This sign is particularly helpful in educational settings or when giving directions. Understanding this sign enriches communication, especially in discussions that involve spatial awareness.

How to Sign “Absolute Co Ordinates”

1. Start with both hands in a flat ‘B’ handshape (palm down). Place them in front of you at shoulder height.
2. From this position, move your hands outward and apart, creating a horizontal plane. This motion represents the concept of coordinates.
3. As you move your hands, maintain a focused facial expression to convey the importance of precision in coordinates.
4. Finish the sign by bringing your hands back together, indicating the intersection point of the coordinates.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to maintain a flat ‘B’ handshape, which can lead to confusion with other signs.
• Not using facial expressions, which are crucial in Auslan to convey meaning and emotion.
• Moving the hands too quickly, which can make the sign less clear to the viewer.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten.
• 100 – The sign for the number one hundred.
• 11 – The sign for the number eleven.
• 12 – The sign for the number twelve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use this sign in a sentence?

Yes, you can say: “Use absolute coordinates to find the location,” which would incorporate the sign naturally within the context.

Are there regional variations in this sign?

While the core sign remains the same, some regions may have slight variations in movement or handshape. It’s good to observe local usage.

What are similar signs to absolute coordinates?

Related signs include “location,” “map,” and “navigation,” which all involve spatial concepts.

How does this sign compare to BSL?

In British Sign Language (BSL), the sign for coordinates may differ in handshape and movement, reflecting regional differences in sign language.

What are some teaching tips for this sign?

Practice with visual aids like maps and encourage students to use facial expressions to enhance clarity and meaning.