Basic components

1. Introduction
2. Manual components
         a) Configuration
         b) Place
                  b.1) Neutral space
                  b.2) Around the head
                  b.3) In contact with the body
         c) Movement
         d) Orientation
3. Non-manual components
         a) Facial expression
         b) Torso movement
         c) Head position and/or movement
         d) Mouth gesture
                   d.1) Imitative
                   d.2) Compulsory component
                   d.3) Optional component
                          (modifier)
         e) Mouthing
                  

This chapter analyzes the manual components of the sign. Such components are, as we have already told: configuration, place of articulation, movement and orientation. A change in any one of the parameters will cause differences in meaning between two signs. Moreover, the combination of these units makes up the signs. Let us see some examples:

    "Please" / "Morning"
    "Difficult" / "To remember"
    "To wait" / "August"
    "Pupil" / "Teacher"