Call Down in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign “call down” in Auslan refers to the action of communicating or summoning someone, typically from a higher position to a lower one, such as calling someone down from a balcony or upstairs. It is commonly used in social interactions or when needing to get someone’s attention from a distance.

How to Sign “Call Down”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a “5” hand) with your palm facing down.
2. Position your hand above your head to represent the higher position from which you are calling.
3. Move your hand downwards in a smooth motion while keeping your palm facing down. This movement indicates the action of calling someone down.
4. As you perform the sign, use an expressive facial expression that communicates your intention, such as raising your eyebrows or having a questioning look.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use an expressive facial expression, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Using an incorrect handshape, such as a fist instead of a flat hand.
• Not making a clear downward movement, which may confuse the message being conveyed.

Related Signs

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

Using “Call Down” in Everyday Conversations

The sign “Call Down” can be very useful in various everyday situations. Here are a few example sentences demonstrating its use:

• Scenario: You are at a park, and you want to get your friend’s attention who is sitting on a bench.
  Auslan Sign Order: YOU (point) CALL DOWN FRIEND (sign friend) (gesture towards the friend).
• Scenario: You see someone on the second floor of a building and wish to ask them a question.
  Auslan Sign Order: YOU (point) CALL DOWN PERSON (sign for person) (gesture upwards).
• Scenario: During a group discussion, you notice someone is not paying attention, and you want to bring them back into the conversation.
  Auslan Sign Order: YOU (point) CALL DOWN (gesture towards the distracted person).

These examples show how “Call Down” can be integrated naturally into conversations, especially when communicating with friends or during group settings.

Cultural Notes

The sign “Call Down” holds significance within the Australian Deaf community, reflecting the importance of visual communication and the need for clear attention-getting strategies. In social settings, it is common and culturally accepted to use this sign to engage others, showcasing the communal aspect of Deaf culture.

When considering dialect variations, it’s essential to recognize that the way “Call Down” is expressed may vary slightly between northern and southern regions of Australia. While the core sign remains the same, some nuances in facial expressions and body language might differ. Engaging with local Deaf groups can provide valuable insights into these variations.

Tips for Learning This Sign

To effectively learn and remember the sign “Call Down,” consider these practical strategies:

1. Mirror Practice: Stand in front of a mirror and practice the sign while watching your own movements. This helps reinforce muscle memory and ensures you maintain the correct form.
2. Observe Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to facial expressions and body posture while signing. These non-manual features are crucial for conveying the right tone and intent.
3. Incorporate into Short Sentences: Use “Call Down” in various contexts by forming simple sentences. For instance, practice saying, “I call down my friend” to help integrate the sign into your everyday vocabulary.

Consistent practice using these tips will help solidify your understanding and ability to use “Call Down” confidently in conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “call down” in a sentence?

You can say, “I will call down to my friend from the balcony,” using the sign to indicate the action clearly.

Are there regional variations for this sign?

Yes, variations may exist depending on the region, but the basic motion and concept remain consistent across Auslan users.

Is there a sign similar to “call down” in ASL?

In ASL, the concept is similar, but the sign may look different. It’s essential to learn the specific signs for each language.

How does “call down” compare to similar signs in BSL?

In BSL, the sign may involve different hand movements or positions, reflecting the differences between the two sign languages.

What tips do you have for teaching this sign?

Encourage students to practice with facial expressions and to use visual cues when performing the sign to enhance understanding.