Adaptation of the sentence repetition test: a study about the complexity principles present in the BSL

Abstract

This project proposes a study about the principles used in the formulation of the fluency test ASL-SRT - American Sign Language - Sentence Reproduction Test - (HAUSER et al, 2008), as well as its adaptation to be applied for native and non-native users of the Brazilian sign language (BSL). The test to be adapted will require that participants watch short video clips with signed sentences by a native user of the BSL. Participants will be asked to repeat the sentences verbatim and, based on the right and wrong sentences produced, their fluency levels will be defined. The test uses forty sentences distributed increasingly, in length and complexity. The research will be based on relevant theoretical studies for a detailed analysis of the internal constituents of the BSL signs. Thereby, the studies by Leite (2008), Xavier (2006), Quadros & Karnopp (2004), Ferreira Brito (1995), and, from a language acquisition perspective, Karnopp (1999) will discuss. Furthermore, some interviews with deaf people will be conducted, and subsequently a deaf individual will be selected to produce and record the sentences that will compose the final version of the test. For this selection, we will use the BSL proficiency and its adequate language acquisition. In view of the current academic interest in sign languages study, the final phase of this research will present an adapted version of the test, allowing its use as one more important tool on the knowledge construction about the BSL, and contributing to the development of future studies and discussion. (AU)