Quickening in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “quickening” in Auslan refers to the feeling of increased movement or activity, often used to describe the sensation experienced during pregnancy when a baby begins to move. This sign is commonly used in conversations about pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting.

How to Sign “Quickening”

1. Start with both hands in a flat handshape (palms facing down).
2. Position your hands near the center of your chest, about shoulder-width apart.
3. Move your hands outward and slightly upward, mimicking the gentle movement of a baby kicking.
4. As you make this movement, keep a relaxed and gentle expression on your face to convey the tenderness of the moment.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may use a tight or stiff handshape instead of a flat one, which can change the meaning.
• Forgetting to convey the gentle upward motion can make the sign appear abrupt rather than soft and fluid.
• Ineffective facial expressions may lead to misunderstandings about the tender nature of the sign.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 1 Dollar – A sign used to denote one dollar.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten.
• 100 – The sign for the number one hundred.
• 11 – The sign for the number eleven.

Using “Quickening” in Everyday Conversations

The sign “Quickening” can be used in various contexts, especially when discussing pregnancy or the experience of feeling the baby’s first movements. Here are a few example sentences that illustrate its use:

• “I felt the quickening yesterday.” (Me/quickening/yesterday)
• “She is excited about her quickening.” (She/excited/quickening)
• “Have you experienced the quickening yet?” (You/explore/quickening/yet)

These situations may arise in conversations among pregnant friends, at prenatal classes, or during discussions with healthcare professionals. Using “Quickening” in these contexts helps convey the emotional and physical aspects of pregnancy within the Deaf community.

Cultural Notes

The sign “Quickening” holds special significance in the Australian Deaf community, particularly among those who are parents or expecting. It represents not just a physical sensation but also an emotional milestone in parenthood. Within different regions of Australia, there can be slight variations in how this sign is expressed, especially between northern and southern dialects. For instance, some users in the Northern Territory may incorporate more facial expressions to convey excitement, while southern users might focus on the handshape and movement. Engaging with local Deaf community members can enhance understanding of these dialectal nuances.

Tips for Learning This Sign

Practicing the sign “Quickening” can be both fun and effective. Here are some concrete ways to remember and master this sign:

1. Mirror Practice: Use a mirror to observe your hand movements and facial expressions. This helps you ensure that you are mimicking the sign accurately.
2. Focus on Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to your facial expressions and body language. These non-manual features are important in Auslan and can change the meaning of your sign.
3. Incorporate it into Short Sentences: Create simple sentences using “Quickening” in your daily practice. This will help solidify your understanding and natural use of the sign in conversation.

By using these tips, you can enhance your Auslan skills and feel confident using “Quickening” in relevant contexts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “quickening” in a sentence?

You might say, “I felt the quickening at around 20 weeks,” using the sign as you talk about the experience.

Are there regional variations for this sign?

Yes, some regions may have slight variations in hand movements or facial expressions, but the core concept remains the same.

Are there similar signs in Auslan?

Yes, signs like “baby” or “movement” may have overlapping gestures or concepts, so it’s helpful to learn those as well.

How does this sign compare to BSL?

While there may be a similar sign in BSL, the handshapes and movements can differ significantly, reflecting the unique characteristics of each sign language.

What are some teaching tips for this sign?

Encourage students to practice with a partner to refine their movements and facial expressions, ensuring they convey the gentleness of the sign.