Makaton Singing and Signing

Singing Techniques​

• There are techniques in singing that also helps make the signs clearer.​

These include:​

• Directionality: the direction in which the signs move.​

• Placements: The location where the signs are made, e.g. in the space in front of the singer.​

• Movement: the use of body movement and factual expression can add meaning to the sign.​

• Lead: When signing the dominate hand forms and shapes the primary action. ​

Signing Songs

• Use actions and gestures and make funny faces​

• Use body movements to explain and emphasise the meaning of the sign ​

• Change the way you talk, ​

Slow down ​

Emphasise important words make them stand out ​

• Encourage looking with the children.​

• Encourage listening​

• Encourage turn taking ​

In vocal play​

With objects​

With actions​

• Have Fun!!​

Key word signing 

• When using Makaton in our school we need to highlight the main information carrying words only. This is key word signing, for example in the song  “If you're happy and you know it”. Happy and Know are the key words that we will sign in that sentence.​

• The amount of key word signs can be adapted to support the needs of individual pupils.​

For example:​

• Discovers / Investigators may require one key sign in a sentence.​

• Explorers may require two key signs in a sentence.​

• Adventures may increase to three key signs  in a five- word sentence. ​

Powerpoint link - Makaton Signing and Singing The Wheels on the Bus.pptx 

Powerpoint link - Makaton Signing and Singing If you happy and you know it.pptx  

PowerPoint Link - Makaton Signing and Singing Row Row Row your Boat Final.pptx 

Powerpoint link - Makaton Signing and Singing Hickory Dickory Dock.pptx 

Powerpoint Link - Makaton Signing and Singing Five little speckled frogs.pptx  

PowerPoint Links (need to be logged into school 365 account) - Sky Full of Stars Makaron CPD