Week in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “week” is a fundamental part of the British Sign Language (BSL) vocabulary, commonly used to discuss timeframes in both everyday conversation and more formal contexts. This sign is particularly useful for Deaf people when talking about schedules or planning events. 

How to Sign “Week”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a “B” handshape). Position your hand in front of your body, palm facing towards you.
2. Using your dominant hand, move it in a slight arc to the side, away from your body, while maintaining the flat handshape.
3. As you perform the movement, ensure your facial expression reflects the context of the conversation, like being relaxed or focused, depending on the topic.
4. In BSL, the sign for “week” can be combined with other signs to indicate specific weeks, such as “next week” or “last week,” by modifying your movement or using additional signs.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use the correct handshape, leading to confusion with other signs.
• Not incorporating appropriate facial expressions, which are vital for conveying meaning in BSL.
• Using too large of a movement, which can make the sign less clear.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “week” is performed with a flat handshape and a sideward movement. In contrast, American Sign Language (ASL) uses a different handshape and movement for the same concept. This highlights the unique nature of each sign language despite their shared goal of communication.

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

How would I use “week” in a BSL sentence?

You could say, “Next week I will visit you” by signing “NEXT WEEK I VISIT YOU”. Use the topic-comment structure to clarify the subject and action.

Are there regional variations for this sign in the UK?

While the sign for “week” is generally consistent, some regions may have slight variations in movement or speed. Observing local Deaf community norms is helpful.

Are there similar signs to “week”?

Yes, signs for “day,” “month,” and “year” are related and often used together in discussions about time.

What are some tips for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your handshape and facial expressions. Also, try to use the sign in context with friends or in classes.

Can I combine “week” with other signs?

Absolutely! Combining “week” with signs like “next” or “last” helps clarify your meaning and makes your communication more effective.

How do I sign “next week”?

To sign “next week,” you would sign “NEXT” followed by the sign for “WEEK,” ensuring to use appropriate facial expressions for clarity.