Call Me in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “call me” in Auslan is used to ask someone to contact you, typically through a phone call or other means of communication. It’s a friendly way to indicate that you’d like to be reached out to. This sign is often used in casual conversations among friends or acquaintances.

How to Sign “Call Me”

1. Start with your dominant hand in the shape of a “C”. The fingers should be curved together, and your thumb should be extended to form a loose “C” shape.
2. Position your “C” hand near your mouth, with the palm facing towards you.
3. Move your hand away from your mouth in a slight forward motion, as if you are holding a phone to your ear.
4. While performing the sign, maintain a friendly facial expression to convey warmth and openness.

Common Mistakes

• Raising the hand too high or low can change the meaning; keep it at mouth level.
• Using a flat hand instead of a “C” handshape may confuse the sign with others.
• Not using a facial expression can make the sign feel less inviting.

Related Signs

• 1 – Represents the number one.
• 10 – Indicates the number ten.
• 100 – Stands for the number one hundred.
• 11 – Represents the number eleven.
• 12 – Indicates the number twelve.

Using “Call Me” in Everyday Conversations

The sign “Call Me” is commonly used in a variety of everyday situations, especially when making plans or staying connected with friends and family. Here are a few example sentences demonstrating how this sign can fit naturally into conversation:

• Friend: “Let’s catch up later.” You: “Sure! Call me.” (You sign: ‘Call Me’)
• Colleague: “I have some updates for you.” You: “Great, call me when you’re free.” (You sign: ‘Call Me’)
• Family member: “I’ll be out of town next week.” You: “No problem, just call me.” (You sign: ‘Call Me’)

These examples show how “Call Me” can be used to invite communication, whether it’s for socializing, work-related matters, or family connections.

Cultural Notes

In the Australian Deaf community, the sign “Call Me” is more than just a practical expression; it reflects the importance of maintaining connections within the community. It emphasizes the value placed on communication, whether through technology or face-to-face interactions. Additionally, there may be subtle variations in how this sign is produced across different regions, such as in Northern and Southern Australia. While the core sign remains the same, some signers may incorporate regional influences in their signing style, including variations in speed, facial expressions, or the specific movement of the hands. Understanding these differences can enhance communication and foster a sense of belonging within the community.

Tips for Learning This Sign

To effectively learn and remember the sign “Call Me,” consider these practical tips:

1. Mirror Practice: Stand in front of a mirror while practicing the sign. This allows you to see your hand shape and movement, ensuring accuracy.
2. Focus on Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to facial expressions and body language that accompany the sign. Non-manual features are essential for conveying meaning in Auslan.
3. Use in Short Signed Sentences: Incorporate “Call Me” into various simple sentences. This reinforces the sign by using it in context, helping you to remember it better.

By practicing these methods, you will build confidence in using “Call Me” and enhance your overall Auslan skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use “call me” in a sentence?

Yes! You can say, “Call me later” by signing “call me” and then adding the sign for “later”.

Are there regional variations for this sign?

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

What are some similar signs?

Similar signs include “text me” or “message me,” which use different handshapes and movements.

How does this compare to BSL?

In BSL, the sign for “call me” has a different handshape and movement, reflecting the differences between the two sign languages.

What tips can help me teach this sign effectively?

Encourage students to practice in pairs, emphasizing friendly facial expressions to enhance communication.