These are all the various components that make each sign.  After all, a sign is not just composed of a particular handshape.  Each also has an associated movement and location about the head or body.  In addition, the hand should be angled with the palm facing a particular direction.  Finally, many signs also have their own associated facial expression.  

In order for the sign to be produced accurately each of these 5 elements or parameters must be correct.  Otherwise the meaning of the sign could be changed.

At Level 1 it is expected that students will often make slight errors in each of these.  However through experience and practice these errors will become less frequent                                                          

Students should at least be aware of the terminology used when describing the elements that make up each sign. 

The 5 Elements/parameters are

• Handshape....           The actual shape of the hand during all parts of the sign
• Location.........           The location on the body, head, face etc is the sign made
• Movement......           The movement during the complete sign
• Orientation....            The direction that the palm faces during the sign
• Facial Expression....This is to reflect the mood, attitude or emphasis associated with

                                                         the sign