Each Week in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “each week” in Auslan conveys the idea of a recurring event or routine that happens weekly. This sign is often used in discussions about schedules, events, and activities that occur every week. It helps to express time-related information clearly and effectively within conversations.

How to Sign “Each Week”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat ‘5’ handshape, fingers extended and together.
2. Position your hand in front of your chest, palm facing towards you.
3. Move your hand forward in a gentle, horizontal arc while maintaining the ‘5’ handshape.
4. As you move your hand, tilt your head slightly forward and raise your eyebrows to indicate the ongoing nature of the action.
5. Finish the motion by bringing your hand back to the starting position to emphasize the repetition each week.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may forget to use appropriate facial expressions, which can affect the clarity of the sign.
• Incorrect handshape: using a fist instead of a flat ‘5’ handshape can change the meaning.
• Not completing the hand movement fully can make the sign feel incomplete or unclear.

Related Signs

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use “each week” in a sentence?

You might say, “I have a meeting each week,” which would be signed as the sign for “I” followed by the sign for “have,” then “meeting,” and finally “each week.”

Are there regional variations for this sign?

While the sign is generally consistent across Auslan users, slight variations may exist depending on the region. Observing local users can help adapt to these variations.

What are some similar signs?

Similar signs include “every day” and “every month,” both of which convey frequency but with different time frames.

How does this compare to BSL?

In British Sign Language (BSL), the sign for “each week” may differ in handshape and movement, highlighting the differences between Auslan and BSL.

What tips can help me teach this sign effectively?

Use visual aids or videos to demonstrate the sign, and encourage students to practice with each other to build confidence and fluency in their signing.

Can I use this sign for other time frames?

This sign is specifically for “each week.” For other time frames, like “each day” or “each month,” different signs are used.