(things that make one sign different from another) 5 Parameters of ASL (things that make one sign different from another)

1. Handshape What is the shape of your hand? This may be a letter, number, or other handshape.

2. Location Where is the sign located in relation to your body?

3. Movement How does your hand move? Sign may involve one or both hands.

4. Palm Orientation Which way is your palm facing?

5. Non-Manual Signals (facial expression, body language, etc.) How does your face (or body) change when you sign this?

If you change one parameter, you change the meaning of the sign If you change one parameter, you change the meaning of the sign. You are likely to sign something you did not mean!