Australian Sign Language (Auslan): An introduction to sign language linguistics
Cambridge University Press
Edition: Illustrated, 1/18/2007
EAN 9780521540568, ISBN10: 0521540569
Paperback, 338 pages, 22.8 x 15.2 x 2 cm
Language: English
This is first comprehensive introduction to the linguistics of Auslan, the sign language of Australia. Assuming no prior background in language study, it explores each key aspect of the structure of Auslan, providing an accessible overview of its grammar (how sentences are structured), phonology (the building blocks of signs), morphology (the structure of signs), lexicon (vocabulary), semantics (how meaning is created), and discourse (how Auslan is used in context). The authors also discuss a range of myths and misunderstandings about sign languages, provide an insight into the history and development of Auslan, and show how Auslan is related to other sign languages, such as those used in Britain, the USA and New Zealand. Complete with clear illustrations of the signs in use and useful further reading lists, this is an ideal resource for anyone interested in Auslan, as well as those seeking a clear, general introduction to sign language linguistics.
1. Signed languages and linguistics
2. Auslan in social context
3. Auslan and other signed languages
4. Phonetics and phonology
the building blocks of signs
5. Morphology
sign formation and modification
6. Lexicon
the structure of Auslan vocabulary
7. Syntax
the structure of sentences in Auslan
8. Semantics and pragmatics
sign meaning and sentence meaning
9. Discourse
structure and use above the sentence
10. Issues in the study of signed languages.