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The 5th Parameter



Presented By: Tamara Moxham
Date/Time: Fri. March 28, 2025/ 1-4pm MT
RID CEUs: 0.3 PS
Presentation Language: Spoken English

Workshop Description:

Many non-native signers miss the nuances of ASL provided by the 5th parameter – non-manual markers. Many often forget that this parameter includes much more than facial expression alone. This workshop will explore the different degrees of meaning that can be conveyed by NMMs, and how missing these can lead to comprehension errors and skewed interpretations. It will include activities to strengthen general observation skills, Close analysis of signed samples of NMM laden signs where this parameter means the difference between two signed “homonym” meanings, and a sample rubric to help signers and interpreters monitor their progress while developing this skill in the future.

Workshop Objectives:

As a result of attending this workshop, participants will be able to:

  • Explain the full definition of the parameter known as “Non-Manual Markers” and how it is used in ASL
  • Gather a list of resources that will inform the development and enhancement of the support of these skills
  • Demonstrate how to practice NMM receptive skills in a supportive, safe, and interactive environment so as to apply theory discussed

  • Describe how they began to build a rubric that will help self-analysis and diagnosis when applying these suggestions in practice

    Presenter Bio:

    Tamara Moxham started interpreter training in 1988 at University of New Hampshire, transferring to NTID and graduating in 1993.  She has interpreted in Maine, Michigan, Nevada, and Washington as well as VRS and VRI.  

    She got a Masters of Ed in interpreter pedagogy in 2010 and taught at Seattle Central Community College's ITP until its closure.  She has mentored and presented workshops.  She also offers skills diagnostics for educational and other employee interpreters who need performance reviews.  She published How to Use a sign language interpreter; a guide for businesses in 1995 and Deaf Patients, Hearing Medical Personnel; interpreting and other considerations (1st ed. 2005, 2nd ed. 2017) through Butte Publications.  

    After 20 years in Washington Tamara and her husband moved back to New England. They now live in central Maine with their five pets where Tamara's husband teaches science and math and Tamara continues to do both her interpreting, and her etc.