News
British Sign Language & Makaton: What’s The Difference?
Wednesday 16th October 2024
Penny Gunn
It might be true that the first time you came across someone signing was seeing Justin from BBC Cbeebies using Makaton.
And you may have been wondering if Makaton and British Sign Language are the same. If so, you are not alone in thinking that.
Structure and Language Basis
British Sign Language (BSL) is a complete, natural language with its own grammar structure which is different to English.
In Makaton you would say and sign:
“What is your name?”.
In BSL, you would sign: “Name, what?”
In BSL, we use hand shapes, facial expressions, movements and body language to convey meaning. Some have said to me, it’s a bit like watching an actor.
For instance, if you are showing a car overtaking another car, you physically use your hands (I can show you when we meet).
BSL is a language in its own right but can you believe that the UK government only recognised BSL as a language in 2003.
It wasn't until April 28 2022 that it was legally recognised as an official language of Britain. When I was at school BSL was banned!
I like to think of Makaton as more like a communication aid to support English. It combines symbols, signs and speech. And yes, if you know some BSL you will spot some borrowed signs.
Purpose
BSL is used by the Deaf community as our first or preferred language. It’s also part of our identity.
You can think of Makaton as being used more for people with learning disabilities, autism, or speech impairments. It helps, in my view, to support spoken language with signs and symbols. Some people who use it eventually transition to full verbal communication.
Learning and Usage
BSL does take longer to learn because of the different grammar structure. There is more formal studying. At Sign for Thoughts, we offer Signature-approved BSL Levels 1 - 6.
Makaton is generally quicker to learn, as it uses a simpler structure and is often taught alongside speech as mentioned.
You will find that speech therapists and similar professionals use Makaton with children or adults who have communication needs.
BSL is mainly used by the Deaf community for everyday interactions.
In summary, while BSL and Makaton share some signs, they do differ in their complexity, purpose, and cultural significance. BSL is a full and independent language.
Makaton, however, is a simplified system designed to help speech.
For me, I am proud to be a Deaf BSL user - it’s part of my identity. It’s a wonderful language and great fun to learn. Hearing people often tell me that they love being able to meet and communicate with Deaf people (who can often feel isolated) but also to have the ability to be able to sign across a crowded room!
We’d love to welcome you on one of our courses at Sign For Thoughts, please get in touch:
Penny