The Roots of Sign Language

The video explores the relationship between gesture and language, initially emphasizing a distance from gesture in language studies. It discusses the concept of code speech and its connection to gesture, highlighting how gestures can emphasize spoken language. The video then delves into the evolution of sign languages, explaining how isolated communities can develop new sign languages over generations, starting from gestures and evolving into fully recognized sign languages.

Why did the speaker initially want to distance from gestures?

• Because gestures are too complex.

• Because gestures are universal and simple.

• Because gestures are not linked to spoken language.

• Because gestures are difficult to understand.

What is a key characteristic of code speech gestures?

• They are unrelated to spoken language.

• They are universal and simple.

• They are linked to what is being spoken.

• They are only used in sign language.

How does a new sign language typically begin to form in isolated communities?

• Through formal education.

• By adopting national sign languages.

• By mimicking other languages.

• Spontaneously from gestures.

By which generation does a new sign language start to resemble established sign languages?

• Fourth generation

• Third generation

• Second generation

• First generation

What aspect of gestures is highlighted in the final section?

• Their complexity.

• Their ability to follow speech rhythm.

• Their universal nature.

• Their difficulty in learning.