Q. What is the difference between British Sign Language (BSL), Makaton, and Sign Supported English (SSE), and which is best to learn?
A. British Sign Language is a legally recognised visual-gestural language, with a distinctive grammar using handshapes, facial expressions, gestures and body language to convey meaning. It is used by around 151,000 people in the UK, and 87,000 of these are Deaf.
Makaton is a communication programme that uses symbols (pictures), signs (gestures) and speech to enable people to communicate. It supports communication for people with learning disabilities and those with communication difficulties who may struggle to use and/or comprehend spoken language without additional prompts. The Deaf community do not use or understand Makaton.
Sign Supported English uses British Sign Language signs, but in English word order. It is used by some Deaf individuals in mainstream education as it helps them to learn English word order and grammar. Many sign songs are in SSE.
If you are wanting to communicate with the Deaf community, then BSL is essential. You can easily rearrange the signs into English word order for SSE if you ever come across someone who signs SSE.
If you are wanting to communicate with individuals with a learning disability who need simple language and a combination of pictures, signs and words, then you should learn Makaton.
Q. Do you teach sign song?
A. Sign song is a controversial subject within the Deaf community. Some D/deaf individuals love it, and some don’t like it. We respect that everyone has their own view, and we recognise that many learners see songs as a fun way to learn, especially since the popularity of Makaton ‘Sign and sing’ sessions for young children and for individuals with learning disabilities. However, BSL sign song that is respectful to the Deaf community should feature and/or be led by Deaf artists, so we do not encourage our learners to sign songs in BSL.
Q. I did an online course that specified a level or number – does that mean I can start at the next level with you?
A. Unfortunately there is no regulation of the levels specified in many online courses, so often they are assigned by the course provider. Our accredited courses are mapped against the national qualifications framework, which does regulate the content and required skill for each level of qualification. Unless your course was accredited by Signature or IBSL, it is unlikely that you would be able to skip a level based on an online course, but we are happy to do skill assessments for a small fee if you would like to check.
Q. Is BSL hard to learn?
A. Just like any language or subject, some people find learning BSL easier than others. However, with our supportive, patient and encouraging tutors, learners of all ages and abilities can learn to sign BSL. The biggest factor in your success as a learner is your own motivation and commitment. We find that the people who learn best are the ones who dedicate time and energy to practice, research, and spending time with the Deaf community or seeking other exposure to BSL.
Q. Do all countries use the same sign language?
A. No, countries have their own sign languages just as they have their own spoken language, such as English and British Sign Language, or French and French Sign Language. A country which has English as its main spoken language may still have its own sign language. For example, in America the main spoken language is English but they have American Sign Language which is very different to British Sign Language.
