Recognised Language in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “is British Sign Language a recognised language” is often used in discussions about the status and recognition of BSL within society. It helps highlight the importance of BSL as a legitimate language in the UK, particularly among the capital-D Deaf community. This sign can be used in educational contexts or when advocating for Deaf rights.

How to Sign “Recognised Language” in BSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (open palm facing forward) at your chest level.
2. Move your hand slightly away from your body while maintaining the flat handshape.
3. Then, transition to a ‘B’ handshape (fingers closed together with thumb extended) and place it in front of your dominant hand.
4. Make a gentle forward motion with the ‘B’ hand while nodding your head slightly to indicate affirmation.
5. Use facial expressions to convey enthusiasm or seriousness, depending on the context of the discussion.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use non-manual features like facial expressions, which are crucial for conveying meaning.
• Using the wrong handshape or position, which can lead to confusion with other signs.
• Not maintaining appropriate eye contact, which is an essential part of BSL communication.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “recognised language” involves specific handshapes and movements that differ from American Sign Language (ASL). While ASL may have a completely different sign for the same concept, BSL places emphasis on the use of space and non-manual features that are unique to the UK Deaf community.

Related Signs

• LANGUAGE – The sign for language in BSL, often used in discussions about communication.
• RECOGNISE – The sign for recognising something or someone.
• DEAF – The sign used to identify members of the Deaf community.
• SIGN – A fundamental sign in BSL that refers to signing itself.
• COMMUNITY – Used when discussing the Deaf community and its culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a full BSL sentence?

You can use it in sentences like “Is BSL a recognised language in the UK?” by signing the topic first and then the comment.

Are there regional variations in this sign across the UK?

While the basic sign remains the same, some regions may have slight variations in speed or facial expression.

What are some signs similar to this one?

Signs like “LANGUAGE” and “RECOGNISE” are related and often used together in discussions about BSL.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your handshape and facial expressions. Engaging with the Deaf community can also help.

Can I use this sign in formal settings?

Yes, it is suitable for formal discussions about BSL, especially in educational or advocacy contexts.

How do I express urgency or importance when signing this?

Use a more pronounced movement and intense facial expression to convey urgency or importance.