Day 16: 5 Elements of Signing

View of the sky in the Southwestern University
Building where we held the FSL Lessons

We visited the Southwestern University today and joined the PWDs for the Filipino Sign Language lessons. I was encouraged more to learn FSL after seeing how enthusiastic in learning it.

Later, JP ( Program Supervisor of GVSP), gave a talk about the 5 Elements of Signing which was not discussed during our training on the first week. I find it so interesting because it describes how Signs were made and understood.

5 Elements of Signing:

1. Hand shape:

Different Hand shape means different meaning. This implies how to distinguish letters such as S and A, K and P.

2. Movement:

Different Movement means different meaning. This implies that Up-Down, Left-Right, and Circular movements of the same shape or letter would have a different meaning.

3. Location:

Different Location means different meaning. This implies that having the same hand shape with a different location will have a different meaning. Example would be letter L on the shoulders would mean "Lazy" and letter L below the lips means "Lunch"

4. Palm Orientation:

Different Palm Orientation means different meaning. This implies that if a palm is facing at you it means "Your" if it faces you it means "Mine". Letter E in circular motion on shoulders level facing you means "Enjoy" while letter E in circular motion facing the other side in line with your head would mean "Exercise".

5. Non-Manual Signal:

Different Facial Expressions means different meaning. To tell that you are happy, means you have to smile, mad face if your angry. Your facial expression conveys the meaning.


It is a great learning experience today with my co-ICS Volunteers. Everyday, we are getting more acquainted with the work we're going to engage in the upcoming days. Getting ready. Getting fit. Excited to finally start.