Wall at the Side in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “wall at the side” is useful when describing locations or giving directions in the UK Deaf community. It can convey specific information about space and layout, making it invaluable in daily conversations or when discussing plans for events or gatherings.

How to Sign “Wall At The Side”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat “B” shape (palm facing down). This represents the wall.
2. Position your hand to the side of your body at about waist height.
3. Use your non-dominant hand to point towards the wall, indicating its location.
4. Maintain eye contact and use facial expressions to show that you are discussing the wall’s position.
5. Optionally, you can tilt your head slightly towards the wall to reinforce the direction and location.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use non-manual features like facial expressions, which are crucial in BSL.
• Using the wrong handshape; ensure you are using a flat “B” handshape to represent the wall.
• Not orienting the sign towards the appropriate space, which can confuse your listener about the wall’s location.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “wall at the side” emphasizes the spatial aspect by using the dominant hand to show the wall’s position. In contrast, American Sign Language (ASL) may use different handshapes or movements, reflecting variations in regional signing conventions.

Related Signs

• Wall – The basic sign for a wall without specific positioning.
• Side – A sign indicating lateral position.
• Left – Useful for indicating a direction.
• Right – Another directional sign.
• Near – To describe proximity to the wall.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “wall at the side” in a BSL sentence?

You can say, “The wall at the side is blue,” by first signing “WALL AT THE SIDE” and then indicating the colour with the appropriate sign.

Are there regional variations for this sign?

While the core sign remains consistent, some regional variations may exist in handshape or facial expressions. Observing local signers can help you adapt.

What are some similar signs I should learn?

Related signs like “WALL,” “SIDE,” and directional signs like “LEFT” and “RIGHT” will enhance your ability to describe locations effectively.

What tips can help me learn this sign better?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your handshape and facial expressions. Watching video demonstrations can also be beneficial.

Can I use this sign in different contexts?

Yes, this sign can be used in various contexts, such as giving directions, describing a room layout, or discussing architectural features.

How does the signing space affect this sign?

Using space effectively helps clarify the location of the wall. Ensure you orient your sign towards the area being discussed.