CONTRASTIVE STRUCTURE

 

When talking about people, places or things (referents) that are not in the immediate environment, it is important to establish these referents in specific locations in the signing space in front of you.  Referents are established by naming what you are referring to and then designating (by pointing to) a location.  They can be referred to again by simply pointing to the same location.

As you compare or contrast two people, places, or things, be sure to shift your head and body slightly in agreement with the space you established for each referent.  If you point to the left, shift to the left, if you point to the right, shift to the right.
                    
                 

I HAVE TWO FRIENDS

TOBY

PRISCILLIA

STUDENT HERE SCCC

TEACHER SEATTLE UNIVERSITY

STUDY SPANISH

TEACH ENGLISH

LIVE BLUE HOUSE WITH GREEN WINDOW TRIM

LIVE CONDO, WHITE WITH BLACK WINDOW TRIM

GROW-UP BELLEVUE

GROW-UP PUYALLUP

THREE-OF-US ENJOY PLAYING GAMES

                   

 Using the format above, create a story, practice it and be ready to sign it in class.  You can also change the information used; just be sure to include a name and THREE bits of information about each person, and then a concluding statement about the three of you.

Remember:
Use fingerspelled names one time as you establish the person in space.
Alternate referring to each person.
Use appropriate eye gaze.
Raise your eyebrows to identify who you are talking about.