This handout sheet tells you how to spell your name in NZSL, and how to say “My name is…”
With this, you should be able to introduce yourself in New Zealand’s third official language!
There is also an online video dictionary or NZSL available at https://www.nzsl.nz/
This video shows you how to sign the Scout BRAVO cheer. Watch carefully, and see the signs for “Give Me” followed by the letters B, R, A, V, and O; and then the signs for “What All-together Have [Question]?” followed by the handwaving that means “Bravo!”
Here are a few examples of Sign Language for you to try out:
- NZSL Bravo cheer : NZSL Bravo in AVI format for download
- Scout promise in NZSL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3pxh8PB9J44
- Online dictionary: https://www.nzsl.nz/
- Learn NZSL: https://learn.nzsl.nz/
- NZ Sign Language learning resources
- Sing “Paradise” in NZSL on YouTube
- MergeNZ, who have provided us with an instructor at reasonable rates in the past
Some tips for when communicating in NZSL
- Remember to use your facial expression to support your meaning
- Sign so that your audience can see clearly, not just yourself!
- Use the Scout Sign to mean “Scouts”
- Sign in front of your chest (not too low down) so that your hands and face are visible together
- Don’t make your signs too small (whispering) or really big (shouting)
- If you don’t know the word, then spell it, or mime it.
- Don’t worry if you have a Left-handed accent!