Describes a study in which two nonspeech communication systems were evaluated with respect to their efficacy for use with profoundly retarded nonspeech children. Results show that 53 profoundly retarded children who have failed to acquire expressive linguistic skills can succeed with some alternative nonspeech symbol systems, especially with…

Presents a framework for representing hand signs in American Sign Language which can account for surface data in a way that explains underlying properties of sign structure. This model preserves the structural and functional importance of location, movement, and hand configuration and reveals special properties of the hand tier. (Author/SED)

Examines the two-finger extension as a hand shape in sign language by analyzing data on 10 different sign languages. The analysis shows that a theory of marking can be developed for sign languages along the same lines as those used for spoken languages--only the particular physiology is different. (SED)

Describes the growth of Seeing Essential English (SEE) and suggests that the use of SEE in several school districts is responsible for students' high scores on two tests of English understanding. Advises further research to gauge the contribution of SEE. (EKN)

A survey of 790 community and junior colleges on the availability of sign language classes and interpreter training revealed that 373 (four percent) offer sign language classes with an annual enrollment of over 30,000 students. Interpreter training is offered at 54 colleges with a total enrollment of more than 2,100 students. (Author/CL)

The study assessed effects of a transfer of stimulus control procedure on acquisition and cross-setting generalization of manual signs with four profoundly retarded young adults. Results showed that individuals acquired the trained signs and maintenance and generalization across settings and persons occurred but was highly variable between and…

Effects of high and low levels of manual sign translucency and referential concreteness on the manual sign learning of 40 moderately/severely mentally retarded adolescents were investigated. High levels of translucency were a significant facilitator while low levels inhibited learning. Concreteness did not significantly affect sign learning.…

Finding good help is difficult enough these days, but trying to hire a qualified sign language interpreter can be especially difficult if you don't know what to look for. This paper provides some ideas that may help in your search. These include such considerations as using an interpreter referral agency versus direct hiring and certification and…

Finding good help is difficult enough these days, but trying to hire a qualified sign language interpreter can be especially difficult if you don't know what to look for. This paper provides some ideas that may help in your search. These include such considerations as using an interpreter referral agency versus direct hiring and certification and…

"The Goldfinch" is a magazine aimed at introducing young people to Iowa history. Each issue has a different topic which is discussed in detail throughout that issue. There are articles which describe different aspects of the topic. The topic for this particular issue is "Iowans with Disabilities." Featured articles from this…

Research supported by a National Science Foundation grant to the University of Texas. (RS)

Findings of a study involving 49 elementary and 32 secondary deaf students supported the hypothesis that adding sign language pictures above English words would significantly increase Ss' reading comprehension. Cloze sign format (every fifth sign deleted) also improved comprehension. Results supported a language difference model. (CL)