Chapter 9: Subjects and Objects
Just like in English, ASL also has a way to structure word order and how to distinguish the subject and object of a sentence. In ASL there are three easily identified way to do this: first is by how verbs are modulated (changed); second is the order of signs and topicalization (when verbs are non-directional); the third way it can be identified is by shifting if a Signer's body and gaze. I will give a brief explanation of each method and provide examples for each as well.
The modulation of certain verbs can help identify the subject and object based on the movements made with them by the Signer. This situation works for verbs that are directional, reciprocal and locative. I will explain how each of those types of verbs can be used. An example of a directional verb in ASL would be the verb HELP. In ASL the Signer would first have to identify who is helping who, as a result of that the verb would change direction. A reciprocal verb is signed using both hands and it signifies that the action is being done by both parties in the sentence. A locative verb identifies that there is movement to or from a specific location. The Signer is always in first person so they would be referring to other third party members in spaces that are away from their body. Below are two excellent illustrations from the Green Book that are an example of how directional verbs work, for my examples of directional/reciprocal/locative verbs please watch the ASL video above.
The modulation of certain verbs can help identify the subject and object based on the movements made with them by the Signer. This situation works for verbs that are directional, reciprocal and locative. I will explain how each of those types of verbs can be used. An example of a directional verb in ASL would be the verb HELP. In ASL the Signer would first have to identify who is helping who, as a result of that the verb would change direction. A reciprocal verb is signed using both hands and it signifies that the action is being done by both parties in the sentence. A locative verb identifies that there is movement to or from a specific location. The Signer is always in first person so they would be referring to other third party members in spaces that are away from their body. Below are two excellent illustrations from the Green Book that are an example of how directional verbs work, for my examples of directional/reciprocal/locative verbs please watch the ASL video above.
An alternative way that a Signer can identify the subject and object in a sentence is through the order of signs as well as topicalization. When verbs are non-directional, meaning that they cannot be modulated to express a different meaning, we rely on the order of the signs. Topicalization refers to the object of the sentence (what is being discussed) and is identified by the Signer raising their eyebrows There are two ways that this can be set up in ASL: Subject(t)-Verb-Object or Object(t)-Subject-Verb. In ASL Gloss these would be expressed like this: ME TRUST YOU or YOU ME TRUST. Both of those sentences share the same meaning, but are just expressed in two different ways. Refer to my ASL video above to see these sentences in action.
The final way one can identify the subject and object within an ASL sentence would be through body shifting and eye gaze. When a Signer's body or eye gaze is focused in a specific area they are referring to a specific noun. In the ASL video above I use the example of a mother and her son having a conversation. Notice how I shift my gaze and upper body to identify who is talking.
This chapter I have continued to struggle with. Setting up the subject and object within an ASL sentence is often included in feedback that I receive from my ASL teachers. I understand how to use topicalization and directional verbs, but I continue to struggle with body shifting and eye gaze. Body movement is a large part of ASL and helps to make the language more visual instead of using sign, sign, sign, sign. This is one of my ASL goals that I hope to improve.
Baker-Shenk, C., & Cokely, D. (1980). Subjects and Objects. In American sign language: A teacher's resource text on grammar and culture (pp.247-286). Washington: Clerc Books.
The final way one can identify the subject and object within an ASL sentence would be through body shifting and eye gaze. When a Signer's body or eye gaze is focused in a specific area they are referring to a specific noun. In the ASL video above I use the example of a mother and her son having a conversation. Notice how I shift my gaze and upper body to identify who is talking.
This chapter I have continued to struggle with. Setting up the subject and object within an ASL sentence is often included in feedback that I receive from my ASL teachers. I understand how to use topicalization and directional verbs, but I continue to struggle with body shifting and eye gaze. Body movement is a large part of ASL and helps to make the language more visual instead of using sign, sign, sign, sign. This is one of my ASL goals that I hope to improve.
Baker-Shenk, C., & Cokely, D. (1980). Subjects and Objects. In American sign language: A teacher's resource text on grammar and culture (pp.247-286). Washington: Clerc Books.