Facing in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “facing” in Auslan is used to describe the direction someone is looking or the orientation of objects in relation to each other. This sign is commonly used in conversations about positioning, directions, or when giving instructions. It helps to clarify how people or things are aligned.

How to Sign “Facing”

1. Start by raising your dominant hand, palm facing outward.
2. Use the index finger to point in the direction you want to indicate.
3. Position your hand at about shoulder height, ensuring it remains steady.
4. As you sign, maintain a neutral or slightly inquisitive facial expression that aligns with the context of your conversation.
5. Hold the sign for a moment to emphasize the direction or orientation you are describing.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to keep the hand steady, which can confuse the direction being indicated.
• Using the wrong facial expression; facial cues are essential in ASL for conveying meaning.
• Poor hand positioning, such as holding the hand too low or at an incorrect angle, which may lead to misunderstandings.

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.

Using “Facing” in Everyday Conversations

The sign “Facing” is commonly used in everyday conversations among the Deaf community to describe orientations, directions, or relationships between people and objects. Here are a few examples:

• Example 1: “We are facing each other.”

  Auslan Sign Order: WE (pointing) – EACH OTHER (using “Facing”)

• Example 2: “The shop is facing the park.”

  Auslan Sign Order: SHOP (signed) – PARK (signed) – FACING (pointing towards the park)

• Example 3: “They are facing the audience.”

  Auslan Sign Order: THEY (pointing) – AUDIENCE (signed) – FACING (using “Facing”)

These examples highlight how “Facing” can describe physical positions during conversations, making it an essential part of everyday communication.

Cultural Notes

The concept of “Facing” carries significant cultural implications within the Australian Deaf community. It is often used to emphasize the importance of visual access during communication, as maintaining eye contact and positioning helps ensure everyone is included in the conversation. In social gatherings, for instance, people often arrange themselves in a circle to ensure that everyone is facing one another, promoting inclusivity and engagement.

Additionally, there may be slight dialect variations in the use of the sign across different regions of Australia. For example, Northern Australian Deaf communities may have unique ways of incorporating facial expressions or body language with the sign, which can enhance its meaning. Being aware of these regional nuances can enrich communication and foster deeper connections within the community.

Tips for Learning This Sign

Practicing the sign “Facing” can be engaging and effective with the following tips:

• Mirror Practice: Use a mirror to observe your hand and facial expressions while signing. This can help you refine your movements and ensure clarity.
• Watch for Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to how facial expressions and body posture enhance the meaning of the sign. Practicing these features will add depth to your signing.
• Use in Short Sentences: Incorporate “Facing” into everyday conversations with friends or fellow learners. For example, practice by describing the setup of a room or the orientation of people at an event.

Regular practice using these methods will help reinforce your understanding of the sign and improve your overall Auslan skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “facing” in a sentence?

You might say “The door is facing the window,” using the sign to indicate the orientation of the door in relation to the window.

Are there regional variations for this sign?

While the sign is generally consistent, some regions might have slight variations in hand positioning or movement.

Are there similar signs to “facing”?

Yes, signs like “turning” or “looking” have related meanings and may use similar hand shapes.

How does this sign compare to BSL?

British Sign Language has its own unique signs, and “facing” may differ slightly in execution and meaning.

What tips do you have for teaching this sign?

Encourage students to focus on their facial expressions and hand positioning, as both are crucial for clarity in ASL.

Can I use this sign in casual conversations?

Absolutely! “Facing” is a versatile sign that can be used in various contexts, both formal and informal.