Pace in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “pace” in Auslan (Australian Sign Language) conveys the action of walking back and forth or moving in a rhythmic manner. It can be used in various contexts, such as describing someone’s nervous habits or discussing a situation where someone is moving around a lot. This sign is particularly helpful in storytelling or sharing personal experiences.

How to Sign “Pace”

1. Start with both hands in a loose fist shape, with your thumbs extended and pointing upwards.
2. Position your hands at about waist height, slightly in front of your body.
3. Begin to move your hands back and forth in a gentle, rhythmic motion, as if mimicking the action of walking.
4. Maintain a relaxed facial expression; you can show slight concern or focus, depending on the context.
5. Repeat the movement as necessary to emphasize the pacing action.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use the proper handshape, leading to confusion with other signs.
• Making the movement too fast or erratic, which can make it difficult for others to understand.
• Neglecting facial expressions, which are important for conveying the right emotion behind the sign.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten.
• 11 – The sign for the number eleven.
• 12 – The sign for the number twelve.
• 13 – The sign for the number thirteen.

Frequently Asked Questions

How would you use “pace” in a sentence?

You might say, “I saw him pace back and forth while waiting for the bus.”

Are there any regional variations for this sign?

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

What signs are similar to “pace”?

Signs related to movement, such as “walk” or “run,” may share similar hand movements but differ in speed and context.

How does this sign compare to a similar sign in BSL?

In BSL, the sign for “pace” is often depicted with a different handshape and movement pattern, emphasizing the unique characteristics of each sign language.

What are some teaching tips for “pace”?

Use real-life examples to demonstrate the sign, and encourage students to practice in pairs to enhance understanding and fluency.