Which term specifically refers to the internal structure of a word in ASL?

Which term specifically refers to the internal structure of a word in ASL?

• A. English Morphology
• B. Form
• C. ASL Morphology
• D. Phonology

Answer: (C)

ASL Morphology. In ASL, morphology is about how signs are built from meaningful parts and how those parts combine to form words and convey grammatical information like tense or aspect. This focuses on the internal structure of signs, not just their surface form. English Morphology would apply to English, not ASL. Phonology in sign languages covers the system of sub-lexical features (like handshape, movement, location) and how they pattern—it's more about the form and sound-like units than the internal meaning-bearing structure. The term Form refers to the physical realization of the sign. So the internal, meaning-bearing organization of ASL signs is best described by ASL Morphology.

ASL Morphology. In ASL, morphology is about how signs are built from meaningful parts and how those parts combine to form words and convey grammatical information like tense or aspect. This focuses on the internal structure of signs, not just their surface form. English Morphology would apply to English, not ASL. Phonology in sign languages covers the system of sub-lexical features (like handshape, movement, location) and how they pattern—it's more about the form and sound-like units than the internal meaning-bearing structure. The term Form refers to the physical realization of the sign. So the internal, meaning-bearing organization of ASL signs is best described by ASL Morphology.