Waken in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)
The sign “waken” in Auslan (Australian Sign Language) refers to the action of waking up or being alert after sleep. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, especially in contexts related to sleep, morning routines, or when discussing someone’s state of awareness. This sign can be a fun way to express when someone has just opened their eyes to the world around them.
How to Sign “Waken”
- Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a “B” handshape) with your palm facing down.
- Position your hand near your forehead, as if representing the head of a sleeping person.
- Gently lift your hand upwards while slightly bending your elbow, as if indicating the action of someone waking up.
- As your hand moves up, slightly spread your fingers apart to convey the opening of awareness.
- Maintain a facial expression that signifies awakening—perhaps a slight smile or a look of alertness to reinforce the action.
Common Mistakes
- Using a fist instead of a flat handshape; this can change the meaning of the sign.
- Moving the hand too quickly; a smooth, gentle motion better represents the waking action.
- Neglecting facial expressions; they are important in Auslan to convey the full meaning of the sign.
Related Signs
- 1 – The sign for the number one.
- 10 – The sign for the number ten.
- 100 – The sign for the number one hundred.
- 11 – The sign for the number eleven.
- 12 – The sign for the number twelve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use “waken” in a sentence?
Yes! For example: “I will waken early tomorrow to see the sunrise.”
Are there regional variations for this sign?
There might be slight variations in how it’s signed in different areas, but the core motion remains similar across Australia.
What are some signs similar to “waken”?
Signs like “sleep” or “tired” are related and often used in the same context.
How does this compare to BSL?
BSL (British Sign Language) has its own signs for waking and sleeping, which may look quite different from Auslan.
What teaching tips do you have for this sign?
Use visual aids and encourage students to practice in pairs to improve their signing and facial expressions.
Is there a specific context where “waken” is more commonly used?
It’s often used when talking about morning routines or discussing someone who has just risen from sleep.
Can children learn this sign easily?
Yes, children often pick up signs quickly, especially with engaging and playful teaching methods.
Practice This Sign
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