coalescence - sconli

sounds. But considering the fact that describes a real language or a possible language
includes a particular set of laws and rules for it to function as a natural language.
If language is processed in the brain and not in the oral articulators, it is possible for a
language to be expressed through a different medium. If language communicates ideas by
producing some sets of meaningful sounds, it is also possible to have a particular kind of
language which performs the same function except for the difference in the physical act
of producing it. Sign language is one such language where the speech sounds are absent
and communication is accomplished through signs that are performed manually.
In olden days, a group of people abstained from sign language fearing that it would
inhibit the learning of oral languages and hinder deaf people‟ participation in the society.
Still in some countries like Japan, the national government prohibits the use of Sign
language. Later, Wallis & Holder made an attempt to teach the deaf and became the first
teachers of speech to the deaf. The first public school for the hearing impaired was
established in the year 1755 in London by Michal de l‟Eppe. In the 1870‟s there was a
mood set up and oral teachers were employed in many deaf schools.
Teaching deaf the oral language freed them from being complacent about Sign language.
Though it took a full-fledged form in its days, the growth and development of Sign
language had not tapered off. Dalgarno devised the finger spelling method; it sailed
through many trials and experiments and finally got its shape and became two-handed
„British Manual alphabets‟. American Sign Language uses one-handed alphabet whereas
Indian Sign language uses double handed „Standard Manual alphabet‟.
Dalgarno‟s alphabet
Source: Sandler, W. & Martin, D.L (1985)
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