Call Up in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign “call up” in Auslan is used to express the action of making a phone call or contacting someone via phone. It is commonly used in conversations about communication, social interactions, or when discussing someone reaching out to another person. This sign conveys a clear message and is a useful part of everyday communication.

How to Sign “Call Up”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a fist shape, with the thumb pointing up.
2. Position your hand near your ear, as if you are holding a phone.
3. Move your hand slightly away from your ear, mimicking the action of dialing or making a call.
4. As you perform the movement, maintain a friendly facial expression to convey the act of reaching out to someone.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners forget to use the appropriate facial expressions, which are essential for conveying meaning in Auslan.
• Others may confuse the sign with similar gestures, such as signs for “text” or “message”.
• Not fully extending the hand away from the ear can make the sign unclear or less expressive.

Related Signs

• 1 – Represents the number one.
• 1 Dollar – Sign for one dollar currency.
• 10 – Represents the number ten.
• 11 – Represents the number eleven.
• 12 – Represents the number twelve.

Using “Call Up” in Everyday Conversations

The sign “Call Up” is commonly used in various everyday situations, particularly when discussing communication or reaching out to someone. Here are a few example sentences that illustrate its use:

1. “I will call up my friend later.” (You might use this when planning to contact a friend for a chat.)
2. “Can you call up the office to confirm the appointment?” (This could come up in a conversation about scheduling.)
3. “She called up to let me know about the meeting.” (Use this when sharing news about communication from someone else.)

These examples show how “Call Up” fits naturally into discussions about keeping in touch and staying informed, reflecting the importance of communication in our daily lives.

Cultural Notes

Within the Australian Deaf community, “Call Up” carries a significance beyond its literal meaning. It reflects the value placed on direct communication, which is often facilitated through various channels, including video calls and text messaging. The sign emphasizes the act of reaching out, which is central to maintaining relationships in the Deaf community.

Additionally, regional dialects may influence how “Call Up” is signed, though the core sign remains consistent across Australia. In northern regions, there may be slight variations in facial expressions or non-manual features, while southern regions may use different emphases or speed in the signing. Being aware of these subtleties can enhance understanding and fluency within different contexts.

Tips for Learning This Sign

Practising the sign “Call Up” can be both fun and effective with a few concrete strategies:

• Mirror Practice: Stand in front of a mirror and practice the sign. This helps you see your own movements and make adjustments.
• Watch for Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to your facial expressions and body language when signing. These non-manual features can add depth and clarity to your communication.
• Use in Short Sentences: Create simple sentences incorporating “Call Up” and practice them in context. For instance, try to pair it with related signs about friends or plans to solidify your understanding.

By incorporating these practices, you’ll not only master the sign but also gain confidence in using it in everyday conversations.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You might say, “I will call up my friend later,” using the sign to indicate the action of calling.

Are there regional variations of this sign?

While the core sign remains the same, some regions may have slight variations in hand shape or movement.

What are some similar signs to “call up”?

Signs for “text” and “message” are similar but involve different hand shapes and movements.

How does “call up” compare to BSL?

In British Sign Language (BSL), the sign for “call” may differ significantly, showcasing the variations between Auslan and BSL.

What tips do you have for teaching this sign?

Encourage learners to practice in pairs, focusing on clear movements and expressive facial cues to enhance understanding.