Talk About in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “talk about” in Auslan is used when discussing topics, sharing information, or engaging in conversations. It’s a versatile sign that can be incorporated into many contexts, whether casual or formal. This sign helps convey your intention to communicate about a specific subject or idea.

How to Sign “Talk About In Auslan”

1. Start with both hands in a flat shape, palms facing each other.
2. Position your hands near your chin, with fingers slightly spread.
3. Move your hands outward and away from your chin, while simultaneously rotating them so that the palms face slightly forward.
4. As you move your hands, lean slightly forward to emphasize the action of talking.
5. Maintain a relaxed facial expression, which can help convey your engagement in the conversation.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may forget to use facial expressions that reflect engagement, which is crucial in Auslan.
• It’s common to see the hands moving too far apart from the face, losing the connection to the idea of “talking.”
• Using the wrong handshape, such as a fist instead of a flat hand, can change the meaning of the sign.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 1 Dollar – Signifying one dollar in conversation.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten.
• 100 – The sign for one hundred, often used in discussions about amounts.
• 11 – The sign for the number eleven.

Using “Talk About” in Everyday Conversations

The sign “Talk About” is commonly used in various conversation contexts among the Deaf community. Here are a few example sentences that illustrate its use:

• Example 1: “I want to TALK ABOUT the movie we saw yesterday.” (Context: Discussing a recent outing with friends)
• Example 2: “Let’s TALK ABOUT your plans for the weekend.” (Context: Planning social activities)
• Example 3: “Can we TALK ABOUT the homework due next week?” (Context: Academic discussions in a study group)

These examples show how “Talk About” naturally fits into conversations, making it a versatile sign that facilitates dialogue and engagement.

Cultural Notes

The use of “Talk About” reflects the rich cultural exchanges within the Australian Deaf community. Communication in Auslan often goes beyond mere words; it incorporates facial expressions and body language, which add layers of meaning. This sign is frequently used in storytelling, a cherished cultural practice where individuals share personal experiences or folklore.

In terms of dialect variation, while Auslan is relatively uniform across Australia, some regional differences may exist. For instance, in southern states like Victoria, you might notice slight variations in the signing style or accompanying facial expressions compared to northern states like Queensland. However, “Talk About” remains widely understood across these regions.

Tips for Learning This Sign

To effectively learn and remember the sign “Talk About,” consider the following strategies:

1. Mirror Practice: Use a mirror to practice the sign. This helps ensure your movements and facial expressions mimic those of a fluent signer.
2. Watch for Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to the facial expressions that accompany the sign, as they provide context and emotional depth.
3. Use in Short Signed Sentences: Create simple sentences incorporating “Talk About” in your daily conversations. For example, practice signing “I want to TALK ABOUT my day” with friends or family.

By incorporating these practices into your learning routine, you’ll enhance your confidence and fluency in using “Talk About” in Auslan.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “talk about” in a sentence?

You can use the sign in a sentence like: “I want to talk about the event this weekend.” In Auslan, you would sign “I want (sign) talk about event weekend.”

Are there regional variations for this sign?

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

What are similar signs to “talk about”?

Signs like “discuss” or “share” convey similar meanings and can be used in related contexts.

How does this sign compare to BSL?

While Auslan shares some signs with BSL, “talk about” may look different in BSL, emphasizing the unique characteristics of each sign language.

What tips do you have for teaching this sign?

Encourage students to practice with each other to enhance their confidence and comfort level with facial expressions and movement.