TaSSels Approaches

There are different approaches to using the TaSSeLs system.

The approaches are discussed further below to ensure the fullest participation for a learner and their individual needs.

Hand-under-hand (Preferred method)

Learners that have full or partial movement of one or both arms may be able to use this approach. Using this method, the adult’s signing hand is placed under the hand of the learner (some signs involve movement of two hands). This method supports and encourages the learner’s fullest participation. It allows the learner to remove their hand which ensures they can withdraw from the interaction at any time.

Hand-under-hand (Preferred method plus)

This approach can be offered to individuals who need additional support to participate in signing. The learner may have the range of movement to complete the sign but benefits from extra support to enable them to carry out the sign successfully. The adult’s signing hand is placed under the hand of the learner (some signs involve movement of two hands) so that the ‘Vs’ between the adult’s and learner’s index fingers and thumbs are touching. The adult then spreads their fingers to provide additional support to enable the sign to be carried out coactively. This supports and encourages the learner's fullest participation.

Hand-under-hand (Specific adaption)

Some learners will need Core Vocabulary signs to be adapted specifically to meet their more complex physical needs. The adaptation is individualised and the sign’s description is personalised allowing the learner to participate in signing within their range of movement, supporting and encouraging the learner’s fullest participation.

On-body method

For some individuals with more significant physical difficulties, making even the smallest of arm and hand movements is difficult. The On-body method allows all signs to be carried out by the adult directly onto the learner’s body to encourage meaningful communication. In addition, some of the Core Vocabulary signs can only be carried out directly on the learner’s body by the adult, irrespective of the learner’s physical abilities. These signs are marked in the Core Vocabulary index with the following symbol.