Auslan is an Australian sign language. Auslan was developed by, and for, Australians who are deaf or hearing impaired. It’s a visual form of communication that uses hand, arm and body movements to convey meaning.
Auslan is a combination of hand shapes, movements and facial expressions that can be used to deliver messages. These can include a combination of:
Hand shapes
There are 38 hand shapes with 28 variants.
Orientation
Orientation means the direction of your hand in relation to your body.
Location
Signs are made near different parts of the body to convey meaning.
Movement
Small or large movements of the head, arms and hands can suggest different words.
Expression
Head and facial movements or expressions are used to convey emotion and emphasis.
Mitcham Community House is currently offering beginner, intermediate and conversational Auslan courses and classes. Contact them today.
(Source: NPD factsheet)
