You may think you are a know-it-all when it comes to sign language and the deaf culture. Take this short quiz and find out just how much you do know and maybe some surprising facts that you didn't know.
There are less than 50 recognized signed languages throughout the world. True or False?
When individuals who are hearing impaired sign, they watch each other’s hands. True or False?
French Sign Language is very similar to American Sign Language.
Ludwig Von Beethoven was deaf. True or False?
The deaf clap their hands at the end of a show or performance to show their appreciation. True or False?
Actor Rob Lowe and Actress Jane Lynch are both deaf in one ear. True or False?
Instead of the conventional phone, the deaf people use a tele-typewriter (TTY) on which they type a message to the receiver. The TTY signals an incoming call with an alarm. True or False?
Television networks began transmitting closed captions in 1990. True or False?
Names in the ASL community are assigned based on the first letter of a person’s name and characteristics and/or hobbies. True or False?
You need two hands to sign the alphabet in Germany and England. True or False?
Answers:
False, there are overly 125 recognized signed languages.
False, the deaf watch each’s others faces for their emotions and expressions.
True, they are the most similar of all languages. ASL emerged as a language in the American School for the Deaf and was founded by Thomas Gallaudet in 1817. It brought together Old French Sign Language and various village and home sign systems.
True, the famous pianist and composer began losing his hearing when he was in his twenties and was completely deaf by 45. He needed to turn around to see the audience after his brilliant performances because he could not hear their applause.
False, the deaf wiggle their fingers in the air rather than clap their hands.
True.
False, although TTY is used by the deaf, incoming calls are signaled with a flashing light not an alarm
False, television networks NBC, CBS and PBS began using close captions in 1980.
True.
True, but only one hand is required for American Sign Language.
For more reading, check out the fascinating blog by Cat McCrath:
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