Science/Mathematics Sign Lexicon

Interpreter’s Resource Shelf (appeared in RID VIEWS September, 2006, reprinted with permission)
Kathy MacMillan, NIC, M.L.S.

Science/Mathematics Sign Lexicon
http://www.rit.edu/~comets/pages/lexicon/

In response to many requests for technical sign information for terms used in science and mathematics, the Clearinghouse on Mathematics, Engineering, Technology, and Science created this useful and extensive lexicon. Though it is admittedly a work in progress – evaluation of the appropriateness of the signs in certain settings is still underway, for example – the site is a treasure trove for an interpreter looking to expand his or her technical vocabulary. An alphabetical index appears at the top of each page, allowing searchers to jump to an individual letter list. Terms are arranged alphabetically, and each term appears in a chart with columns for sources, notes, and signs. Clicking on “Sources” opens a separate window listing published sources which include illustrations of the sign. “Notes” is not in use yet – presumably these will be added as appropriateness information is gathered. The most useful column for interpreters will be “Sign”, which shows “FS” for terms most appropriately fingerspelled, or a link to a short Quicktime movie demonstrating the sign. The movies are clear and easy to load, and, though many of the signs (such as NEUTRON and LOGARITHM ) are initialized in the fashion of so many technical signs, many more (such as ENDANGERED and WEIGHTLESS) are conceptually appropriate signs that may not occur to non-native signers. From ABSCESS to ZYGOTE, this site should be on the favorites list of any interpreter working in the areas of science and math.

This column appears monthly in VIEWS. Please direct questions, comments, or suggestions for resources to highlight in future issues to Kathy MacMillan at info@kathymacmillan.com.