Cert 2 Auslan in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign “Cert 2 Auslan” refers to the second level of certification in Auslan, which is the sign language used by the Deaf community in Australia. This sign is commonly used in educational contexts, particularly when discussing language proficiency or qualifications in Auslan. It highlights the importance of formal recognition in the Deaf community.

How to Sign “Cert 2 Auslan”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a ‘2’ handshape, which means your index and middle fingers are extended while the other fingers are tucked in.
2. Position your ‘2’ hand in front of your chest, facing outward.
3. Move your ‘2’ hand slightly away from your body and then back towards your chest in a gentle motion.
4. For “Auslan,” shift to a flat ‘A’ handshape, with your palm facing down. Place it near your chin.
5. Make a small circular motion with the flat ‘A’ handshape, keeping your facial expression neutral to convey clarity and professionalism.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may confuse the ‘2’ handshape with the ‘1’ handshape, leading to an incorrect sign.
• Failing to maintain the correct placement of the hand when signing “Auslan,” which can affect clarity.
• Omitting facial expressions, which are vital in conveying the right meaning in ASL.

Related Signs

• (Auslan): The sign language used in Australia.
• 1: Represents the number one.
• 10: Represents the number ten.
• 100: Represents the number one hundred.
• 11: Represents the number eleven.

Using “Cert 2” in Everyday Conversations

The sign “Cert 2” often comes up in discussions about education, career paths, or training programs. Here are a few example sentences that illustrate its use in natural conversation:

• “I finish my Cert 2 in hospitality next month.” (Sign: I FINISH CERT 2 HOSPITALITY NEXT MONTH.)
• “She is studying for her Cert 2 in business.” (Sign: SHE STUDY CERT 2 BUSINESS.)
• “What did you think of the Cert 2 course?” (Sign: YOU THINK CERT 2 COURSE HOW?)

These examples show how “Cert 2” can be integrated into conversations about educational achievements, career aspirations, or opinions about specific courses. Such discussions often happen in community settings, classrooms, or during social gatherings among Deaf friends.

Cultural Notes

In the Australian Deaf community, qualifications like “Cert 2” hold significant value as they represent a stepping stone toward greater independence and employment opportunities. The sign is not just a reflection of a qualification but also embodies the pride and effort that comes with achieving it. In terms of dialect variations, some signers from southern regions may use a slightly different facial expression or body language when signing, which can reflect local cultural nuances. However, the core sign remains widely understood across the community.

Tips for Learning This Sign

To effectively learn and remember the sign “Cert 2,” here are some practical tips:

1. Mirror Practice: Stand in front of a mirror and practice the sign. This visual feedback helps improve your handshape and positioning.
2. Focus on Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to the facial expressions and body language that accompany the sign. These non-manual features add meaning and context, so try to incorporate them as you sign.
3. Use in Context: Create short sentences incorporating “Cert 2” and practice them with a friend or during practice sessions. This contextual learning reinforces memory and improves fluency.

By integrating these methods into your practice routine, you can enhance your confidence in using “Cert 2” in everyday conversations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “Cert 2 Auslan” in a sentence?

You can say, “I am studying for my Cert 2 Auslan to improve my communication skills in the Deaf community.”

Are there regional variations in signing “Cert 2 Auslan”?

While the sign is generally consistent, some regions may have slight variations based on local dialects or interpretations.

What are some similar signs to “Cert 2 Auslan”?

Signs for other certification levels, like “Cert 1 Auslan” or “Cert 3 Auslan,” follow similar hand movements with slight differences in numbers.

How does “Cert 2 Auslan” compare to BSL?

British Sign Language (BSL) has different signs and structures, so while “Cert 2” may convey a similar concept, the sign itself will differ.

What teaching tips do you have for signing “Cert 2 Auslan”?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your hand shapes and movements, and consider recording yourself to review your facial expressions.