Language in Motion: Exploring the Nature of Sign

by Jerome D. Schein, David A. Stewart

Overview

Language in Motion invites readers to explore the fascinating nature of American Sign Language (ASL).

       This enjoyable book first introduces sign language and communication, follows with a history of sign languages in general, then delves into the structure of ASL. Later chapters outline the special skills of fingerspelling and assess the academic offshoot of artificial sign systems and their value to young deaf children.

       Language in Motion offers for consideration the process required to learn sign language and putting sign language to work to communicate in the Deaf community. Appendices featuring the manual alphabets of three countries and a notation system developed to write signs complete this enriching book. Its delightful potpourri of entertaining, accessible knowledge makes it a perfect primer for those interested in learning more about sign language, Deaf culture, and Deaf communities.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781563685828
Publisher:	Gallaudet University Press
Publication date:	02/07/2013
Edition description:	First Edition
Pages:	240
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.60(d)

About the Author

Jerome D. Schein was Professor Emeritus of Sensory Rehabilitation at New York University and an adjunct professor of education at the University of Alberta in Canada.

David A. Stewart was a professor in the Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology, and Special Education at Michigan State University.

Editorial Reviews

Schein and Stewart, both well-respected authorities in the field, manage to capture the essence, beauty, and practicality of sign language. In this work, they stress that sign is not only a communication tool but a vibrant way of life. The authors have included a complete range of topics revolving around sign, including history, structure, economics, the deaf community, and manual alphabets from other countries. The work is comprehensive, well documented, and organized in such a manner as to include references, table of contents, and numerous illustrations for clarity; as such, it complements rather than replaces sign language dictionaries. Facts and anecdotes are highlighted throughout the text in bordered boxes. Each chapter can be read independently and enjoyed on various levels of understanding, regardless of one's signing skill or comprehension.-Emily Ferren, Carroll Cty. P.L., Westminster, Md.

Library Journal