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ASL American Sign Language (42 bytes) ASL American Sign Language (42 bytes) ASL American Sign Language (42 bytes) ASL American Sign Language (42 bytes)


The four general parameters or characteristics of a sign are:

1.  Handshape
2.  Location
3.  Movement
4.  Orientation (palm orientation)

A fifth parameter that is often added to this list is 

5.  "Facial Expressions" and/or "Non-manual Markers."

In my book, facial expressions fall under the more general category of   non-manual markers (NMM).  Non-manual markers consist of the various facial expressions, head tilting, shoulder raising, mouthing, and similar signals that we add to our hand signs to create meaning.

Note if you are taking a test and are asked, "What are the four characteristics or parameters of a sign?" Answer:  handshape, location, movement, and palm orientation.

If you are asked "What are the five characteristics or parameters of a sign?"  Then add "facial expressions" to your answer.


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