Sign Language Awareness Vocabulary Quiz
12 multiple-choice questions on sign language and Deaf awareness vocabulary: BSL, ASL, handshape, fingerspelling, interpreter, Deaf culture, classifier, lip-reading, cochlear implant, accessibility, bilingualism and non-manual features. A2–B1 level.
This quiz focuses on how the target vocabulary for Sign Language Awareness is actually used in context at A2–B1 level, rather than testing bare definitions. Correct answers you will need to identify include terms such as British Sign Language, American Sign Language, handshape, fingerspelling and interpreter, each embedded in a full example sentence so you have to judge meaning from context, not just recognise an isolated word.
Working through all 12 questions and checking the explanations in the FAQ below is a quick way to spot any terms you are still unsure of. Revisiting the quiz again after a day or two, rather than only once, is one of the most reliable ways to move new vocabulary from passive recognition into words you can use confidently yourself in speaking and writing.
Sign Language Awareness — FAQ
What is the difference between BSL and ASL?
BSL (British Sign Language) and ASL (American Sign Language) are two entirely separate languages with different signs, grammar and structure, despite both being used in English-speaking countries. They share very few signs. BSL is used in the United Kingdom and parts of the Commonwealth, while ASL is used in the United States and much of Canada. This fact often surprises people who assume all sign languages are the same worldwide.
Why is fingerspelling important in sign language?
Fingerspelling is essential for spelling out proper nouns, technical terms and words that do not have a dedicated sign. In BSL, fingerspelling is done with two hands, while ASL uses a one-handed alphabet. For ESL learners, understanding fingerspelling is important because it bridges the gap between written English and visual communication, and it is frequently used by interpreters when no established sign exists for a concept.
What is Deaf culture and why is it important?
Deaf culture is a rich and distinct culture shared by members of the Deaf community who use sign language as their primary language. It includes shared values, history, art forms such as signed poetry, humour and a strong sense of community identity. Understanding Deaf culture is important for healthcare workers, teachers and anyone who works with Deaf people, because it helps avoid paternalistic attitudes and ensures communication is respectful and appropriate.
What does an interpreter do in a medical context?
In a medical context, a sign language interpreter facilitates communication between a Deaf patient and a hearing healthcare professional. This ensures the patient fully understands their diagnosis, treatment options and aftercare instructions. Using a qualified interpreter rather than an untrained family member is considered best practice and is often a legal requirement under disability equality legislation.
How is accessibility provided for Deaf people in public services?
Accessibility for Deaf people can be provided in many ways: sign language interpreters at appointments and events, live captions and subtitles on videos and broadcasts, induction loops for hearing-aid users, visual alarms and alerts instead of audio-only signals, and the use of clear written communication. In the UK, the Equality Act 2010 requires organisations to make reasonable adjustments so that Deaf people are not disadvantaged.
What is bilingual education for Deaf children?
Bilingual education for Deaf children uses both a sign language (such as BSL or ASL) and a written or spoken national language (such as English) as the media of instruction. Research shows that Deaf children who develop strong skills in their natural sign language from an early age are better equipped to learn literacy in a second language. Bilingual programmes respect Deaf identity and promote academic achievement alongside cultural pride.
What role do classifiers play in sign language?
Classifiers are handshapes that represent categories of objects and describe how they move, are located in space or interact with other things. For example, a flat hand might represent a vehicle driving along a surface, while a bent V-handshape might represent a person walking. Classifiers make sign language highly visual and expressive, allowing signers to describe scenes and actions with great precision.
Is lip-reading a reliable way for Deaf people to understand speech?
Lip-reading alone is not a fully reliable method of understanding speech. Studies suggest that only about 30–40% of English speech sounds are clearly visible on the lips, while many sounds look identical (such as 'p', 'b' and 'm'). Skilled lip-readers use context, body language and prior knowledge to fill in the gaps. This is why providing sign language access or captions is still necessary.
What are non-manual features and why do they matter?
Non-manual features include all the facial expressions, eyebrow movements, mouth patterns, eye gaze, head tilts and shoulder positions used in sign language. They are grammatically essential: in BSL, for example, raising the eyebrows signals a yes/no question, while furrowing them signals a wh-question (who, what, where). Without correct non-manual features, a sign may change its meaning entirely.
Is a cochlear implant suitable for all Deaf people?
A cochlear implant is not suitable for everyone. It is generally considered for people with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss who receive limited benefit from hearing aids. Outcomes vary significantly between individuals. Within the Deaf community, cochlear implantation is a topic of debate, with some members viewing it as a threat to Deaf culture and identity, while others see it as a valid personal choice.