Yards in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “yards” in Auslan is used when discussing distance, such as in sports, construction, or any context where measuring space is necessary. It’s a practical sign that helps convey measurements clearly in conversation.

How to Sign “Yards”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a “B” handshape) with fingers extended and together.
2. Position your hand in front of your body at chest level, palm facing down.
3. Move your hand forward while maintaining the flat handshape, as if you are measuring a distance.
4. As you move, tilt your head slightly forward and raise your eyebrows to indicate that you are referring to a measurement.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to maintain a flat handshape, leading to confusion with other signs.
• Not using appropriate facial expressions, which are crucial in Auslan for conveying meaning.
• Moving the hand too quickly, making it hard for others to understand 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.
• 12 – The sign for the number twelve.
• 15 – The sign for the number fifteen.

Using “Yards” in Everyday Conversations

The sign for “Yards” can easily fit into various daily conversations, especially when discussing outdoor activities, home improvement projects, or sports. Here are some example sentences where the sign might be used:

• “I have a big yard.” (YARD BIG) — This could come up in casual chats about housing or when introducing your home to a new friend.
• “We need to mow the yard this weekend.” (YARD MOW THIS WEEKEND) — This is a common topic among homeowners discussing chores or weekend plans.
• “My dog loves to play in the yard.” (MY DOG LOVE PLAY YARD) — This sign is often used in conversations about pets and their favorite activities.

Cultural Notes

In the Australian Deaf community, the concept of “yards” often holds significance beyond just the physical space. Yards are places for social gatherings, family barbecues, and community events, reflecting the Australian lifestyle. The sign for “Yards” is widely understood, though it’s essential to be aware of regional dialects. In some northern areas of Australia, subtle variations in the sign may exist, such as different handshapes or movement. Southern dialects might have a more standardized approach, but the meaning remains clear across both. Understanding these nuances can enhance communication and connection within the community.

Tips for Learning This Sign

Practicing the sign for “Yards” can be fun and engaging. Here are some effective methods to help you remember it:

1. Mirror Practice: Stand in front of a mirror and practice the sign. This allows you to see your movements and make necessary adjustments.
2. Watch for Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to facial expressions and body language while signing. These non-manual features can enhance the meaning of “Yards” in context.
3. Use it in Short Signed Sentences: Create simple sentences that include “Yards” and practice them in conversation with friends or in a study group. This not only reinforces memory but also builds your confidence in using the sign.

Regular practice will help you incorporate “Yards” seamlessly into your Auslan vocabulary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use “yards” in a sentence?

Yes! For example, you could say, “The field is 20 yards long” by signing the distance first, followed by “yards.”

Are there regional variations of this sign?

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

Is this sign similar to any other signs?

Yes! The sign may look similar to signs for other measurements. Pay attention to context to ensure clarity.

How does this sign compare to BSL?

In BSL, the sign for “yards” may differ significantly. It’s important to learn the specific signs for each language.

What are some teaching tips for this sign?

Practice with a partner to refine your movements and expressions. Watching native signers can also help deepen understanding.

What contexts is this sign commonly used in?

This sign is often used in sports, construction, and when discussing measurements in everyday conversations.