Edited by Aileen Ryan; Ella Keesing & Judith Cowley

Makaton is a language program which uses key word signs and natural gesture to support communication and is a means of encouraging language development in children and adults with communication difficulties.

The book comprises a small core vocabulary of specially selected concepts/ideas graded in complexity, which are considered to be most appropriate for the needs of children and adults with communication and language difficulties. The initial stages introduce the vocabulary required to support simple interaction and to express basic ideas. More complex concepts are introduced in subsequent stages.

The aim is to ensure that even if limited learning ability and poor retention prevent an individual progressing beyond the initial stages, he or she will benefit from the visual support when sign and gesture is used by their communication partners.

For those who are more able, the Makaton vocabulary is used as a facilitator to develop broader communication and language skills.

The vocabulary is generally taught with speech and signs, but if required, speech + signs + symbols (line drawings) may be used in combination.

When manual signs are used, they are selected from Australian Sign Language (AUSLAN), which is the cultural language of the Australian Deaf Community. Only key words are signed in spoken word order and are accompanied by normal grammatical speech. Makaton also incorporatesmany natural visual strategies such as body language and facial expression, which usually reinforce the meaning of what is being communicated.

MAKATON PRINCIPLES:

• Use of sign and speech concurrently
• Signing the key words (but saying the whole sentence)
• Some use of finger spelling
• Visual strategies - body language, facial expression, directionality and placement
• Use of AUSLAN signs and natural gestures
• Use of flexible teaching methods

Features:

• The Makaton Book is layed out in A4 Landscape style with eight sign language graphics per page.
• The "Makaton Vocabulary" Auslan Edition introduces the Makaton core vocabulary of over 350 words using Auslan signs.
• Individual signs are arranged in suggested stages and written descriptions accompany each sign.
• An alphabetical index facilitates quick reference.
• The book includes regional variations and many of the manual signs that are used in everyday communication.
• Regional variations are explained as being "although Auslan is Australian Sign Language there are some instances where a sign may vary from State to State".
• In the back of the Makaton book there is a list of these signs that have more than one choice and a check list for each State letting you know which sign is more commonly used within your State.