Unit 9 of the Signing Naturally series typically shifts focus toward Narrative Structure. Students are expected to move from basic conversational dialogue to telling stories and recounting events with proper sequencing and perspective.
Introduction If you are currently working through the Signing Naturally curriculum, you know that Unit 9 marks a significant shift in complexity. You are moving from basic introductions into the nuances of complex communication. Specifically, Homework 9.1 focuses on a vital skill: Making Requests and Asking for Assistance.
While finding "answers" might be tempting, true fluency comes from understanding the grammar and culture behind the signs. In this exclusive breakdown, we are dissecting the core concepts you need to ace this homework assignment and level up your ASL skills.
| Mistake | Why it happens | The "Exclusive" Fix | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Reversing left/right | The signer’s right is your left. | Watch the signer’s shoulders. Ignore your perspective. Draw from their perspective. | | Missing the floor plan | You draw objects floating. | Look for the CL:5 or both hands flat to establish the "base." Always draw a floor boundary first. | | Confusing 'next to' vs 'behind' | ASL uses a 3D space, not a 2D page. | If the signer leans back and signs with arm extended away from body = behind. Arm at side = next to. | | Using English prepositions | You write "The book is on the table." | The answer key requires you to draw the book touching the table. In ASL, "on" is a classifier stack (CL:5 on top of CL:B). |
When the video plays, do not try to draw the whole scene. Use the SOIL acronym:
Q: Is the "Signing Naturally Homework 9.11 Exclusive" the same as Unit 9.12? A: No. 9.12 introduces multiple rooms and transitions. 9.11 is exclusively one room. Master 9.11 before moving on. signing naturally homework 911 exclusive
Q: How long should this homework take? A: For an exclusive, non-reusable assignment: 45 minutes to 1 hour. If you finish it in 10 minutes, you likely missed the spatial shifts.
Q: My instructor says "9.11 exclusive" is a quiz, not homework. A: Some teachers invert the curriculum. If it is a quiz, focus on the NMMs (Non-Manual Markers) for "yes/no" questions that accompany the location descriptions.
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Homework 9.11: Exclusive – Mastering "Only" and "None" In Unit 9 of Signing Naturally, Lesson 11 focuses on the concept of exclusivity. This lesson teaches you how to specify that an action or item is limited to a single person, group, or quantity. Mastery of these signs is essential for clear, accurate ASL communication. 🔑 Key Concepts and Signs
The "Exclusive" lesson centers on two primary signs that function as modifiers: ONLY (Singular/Unique): Unit 9 of the Signing Naturally series typically
The Sign: Hold your dominant hand in the "1" handshape, palm facing in, and rotate your wrist in a small circle.
The Usage: Used to indicate "only one," "just," or "solely." NONE (Zero/Empty):
The Sign: Form "O" handshapes with both hands and move them outward from the center of your chest.
The Usage: Used to negate existence or indicate that nothing/no one else is included. ✍️ Syntax and Sentence Structure
In ASL, the "exclusive" sign typically follows the noun it modifies or appears at the end of the phrase for emphasis. Rule of Thumb: Topic + Exclusive Sign + Action. Example: "I have only one sister." ASL Gloss: SISTER, I HAVE ONLY ONE. Example: "No one went to the party." ASL Gloss: PARTY, GO-THERE, NONE. 💡 Practice Strategies | Mistake | Why it happens | The
To excel in your Homework 9.11 assignments, focus on these three areas: Non-Manual Markers (NMMs):
For ONLY, use a slight squint or a specific facial expression that emphasizes "just that one." For NONE, use a sharp head shake to reinforce the negation.
Contextualization: Practice describing your family or your workspace using these signs (e.g., "In my office, I have only one desk").
Review the Video: Pay close attention to the palm orientation and the circular movement of the "ONLY" sign in your workbook media; it is often a point of confusion for beginners. ⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using English Word Order: Avoid signing "I only have..." in English order. Remember to establish the topic first.
Weak Movement: If the circle for "ONLY" is too large, it can be mistaken for "ALWAYS." Keep the movement tight and controlled.
Are you working on the video comprehension portion or the workbook exercises for this specific lesson?