There are 3 different types of sign language: British Sign Language, Makaton and Sign Supported English.
British Sign Language
British Sign Language (BSL) was recognised by the Government as a language in its own right in March 2003. BSL is the first or preferred language of an estimated 70,000 Deaf people in the UK. BSL is a visual-gestural language, with its own grammar and principles, which are completely different from the grammatical structure of English. The language will vary regionally, just as English has various dialects. BSl is made up of hang gestures, finger spelling, lip patterns and facial expressions. Learn more at http://www.signature.org.uk/
Makaton
Makaton is a language that uses signs and symbols to help people to communicate to support the spoken word. It is spoken in English word order, unlike BSL. Makaton can help people who have limited speech and those who cannot, or prefer not to sign. Many people then drop the signs or symbols naturally at their own pace, as they develop speech.
Learn more at https://www.makaton.org/aboutMakaton/default
Learn more at https://www.makaton.org/aboutMakaton/default
Sign Supported English
Sign Supported English is a method of communication that uses the signs of BSL but with the word order and structure of spoken English. This is easier to learn for hearing people, as it does not require knowledge of the BSL grammar structure. It is often used in schools where deaf children and hearing children are taught together.
Learn more at http://www.signedlanguage.co.uk/signsupportedenglish.html
Learn more at http://www.signedlanguage.co.uk/signsupportedenglish.html