| The frequent use of Non-manual signals (NMS) is one of the most prominent features of signed languages. Linguistic data on mouthing and other NMS was obtained from natural sign language material elicited through the presentation of pictures and videos to native signers. From these Shanghai Sign Language video data, we identified 37 mouthing configurations. This thesis categorizes mouthing into two classes and describes the general features of mouthing and the characteristics of each category. Based on a questionnaire regarding Mandarin-influenced mouthing, this thesis finds that different vowels and consonants have different degrees of influence on mouthing in Shanghai Sign Language. With regard to the function of mouthing in signed languages, besides its lexical function, it is often used to modify the manual signs. |
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