Have you ever seen a sign language interpreter in action? Well, after taking American Sign Language (ASL) courses and then going on to get the ‘nuts and bolts’ that an interpreter training program provides, I learned many aspects of ASL communication and I would like to share just a few in this article. The main and most important component in learning ASL is called Parameters. The following are the five parameters that constitute the production of signs for communication.

But wait, what are parameters? Parameters are distinguishing features or notable features that are used to create meaningful signs in ASL. To produce a sign and convey a meaningful word, that sign must follow five parameters that determine its meaning and tone.

The five parameters are:

1. hand shape; this refers to the configuration of the hand used to begin any word production in American Sign Language (ASL). If you’re familiar with the ASL Alphabet, you’ll notice that every word begins with one of at least forty hand forms found in the hand alphabet. Here are just three examples of hand shapes: the ‘c’ as in class; the ‘a’ open as hereafter: the ‘v’ doubled as in squirrel.
2. palm orientation; this refers to the direction in which the hand is turned to produce a signal. Palm orientation is the direction of the palm of the hand, which can include palm up, palm down, palm right, palm left, palm out (away from you), or palm in (palm facing you).
3. movement; this refers to the change in location of the hands within established physical parameters during signal production. For example, a cue may be moving away from you or toward you to indicate a directional verb such as “I give you the book” or “She gives him a pencil.” Movement also refers to the frequency of an action.
4. To lease; It refers to the physical parameters or body location where the sign is produced. The general physical parameters for sign language production are about four inches above the head, elbow room as if you had your hands on your hips, and about four inches below your belly button or belt buckle.
5. Non-manual markers; also known as NMM, they are signs or gestures made without the use of the hands and mainly from the shoulders, head and face to convey a message. Non-manual ASL markers can include: nodding, nodding, head shaking, eyebrow raising, or even shoulder shrugging.

The above parameters are necessary components for communication in ASL. A side note of interest regarding the parameters is that when performing for large audiences, the parameters change dramatically. Large audiences may include interpretation for a play, an auditorium lecture, or sporting events. The parameter differences change only in the size and signature space in which the signals are produced. They are enlarged or exaggerated so that the audience can see the performance from a distance. As a sign language interpreter, I still find it fascinating to see sign language interpreters in action. I’m still learning a lot and I love seeing how they produce those signs so smoothly and within the parameters of ASL.

So the next time you see a sign language interpreter, watch how those parameters are met for clear and concise communication.