Product Description

This is the first detailed explanation of the way British Sign Language works and is the product of many years’ experience of research and teaching sign linguistics to deaf and hearing people. It assumes no previous knowledge of linguistics or sign language, and is not structured around traditional headings such as phonology, morphology and syntax. Instead it is set out in such a way as to help learners and their teachers understand the linguistic principles behind the language. There are sections on BSL grammar and also on the use of BSL, including social acceptability in signing, variation, and poetry and humour in BSL. Technical terms and linguistic jargon are kept to a minimum, and the text contains many examples from English, BSL, and other spoken and sign languages. The book is amply illustrated and contains exercises, as well as a reading list for further study. An accompanying 90-minute video is available from CACDP, Durham University Science Park, Block 4, Mountjoy Research Centre, Stockton Road, Durham, DH1 3UZ. Tel: 0191 383 1155, or e-mail: durham@cacdp.demon.co.uk

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #34176 in Books
• Published on: 1999-03-18
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 322 pages

Customer Reviews

A must-have book for all BSL students
This book for me was essential reading for my BSL Stage 2 course. It covers sign orders and structures, negation, classifiers, storytelling, poetry and lots,lots more besides, without being too 'heavy'. The illustrations, of which there are many, only enhance it further still. (even though its true, I have to say that, as my sign language teacher is one of the people modelling the illustrations!!!) I have read this book from cover to cover, and I still continually refer to it. Having recently passed my BSL Stage 2 exam, I am now about to embark on a CSW (communication support worker) course, where I am in no doubt, this book will hold it's own once again. If you are thinking of buying this book, stop thinking, just get out there and buy it, you will be pleased you did!!!

Excellent for those studying or interested in BSL.
This is the first true book for those interested in the structure and meaning of BSL, covering what is BSL and its place in all aspects of life. The book starts with interesting comparisons between spoken and signed languages and explains fully why both types have developed, what they mean and how they are used. No stone is unturned within the pages with topics such as religion, poetry and political correctness all inter-linked. With the chapters sub-divided to make even the 'heavy' parts seem easy to comprehend and excellent photographs and examples throughout, this book lives up to its claim of 'being the first detailed explanantion of the way British Sign Language works'. Not just another book about signing.

Clear, concise & fascinating
This book has been an essential part of my degree course and I wouldn't have survived without it. It is written in clear, simple English, with plenty of photographs and examples. It is a great starting point to learn about the linguistics of BSL. There are also helpful questions at the end of each chapter which can be used as exam revision! Buy it!