What is the difference between sign systems and sign languages?
The sign language used by Deaf signers is not only a natural language, but it is their “heart” language. It is the language in which Deaf people think, dream, and pray. These visual-spatial languages use a wide variety of hand shapes distinguished by specific parameters of palm orientation, movement, and location as well as distinct body and facial movements. Sign Language is the native language and core identity for those individuals who claim to be part of Deaf culture. The “natural language” has developed spontaneously and within community. Natural language develops autonomously due to need. These are unlike the sign systems that were invented specifically for educational purposes and follow grammars of spoken language.
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