Signing Naturally Unit 9 Answer Key PDF: A Comprehensive Plan
Unit 9 focuses on practical ASL skills, including time-telling, directions, and restaurant descriptions. The answer key PDF provides solutions for exercises covering vocabulary, comprehension, and dialogues.
Resources include Course Hero and Stuvia, aiding student learning.
Unit 9 Overview & Core Concepts

Unit 9 of Signing Naturally builds upon previously learned ASL skills, introducing more complex sentence structures and conversational practice. Core concepts revolve around describing daily routines, giving and understanding directions, and navigating common scenarios like dining out. A significant portion of this unit is dedicated to mastering the expression of time in ASL, moving beyond basic hours to include minutes and specific timeframes.
Students will engage with vocabulary related to neighborhoods, locations (Macy’s, Sam’s Deli, ReMax), and activities performed at various times of the day. The unit emphasizes the importance of contextual clues and non-manual markers in conveying accurate meaning. Furthermore, Unit 9 introduces cultural nuances, specifically focusing on the ASL practice of keeping others informed – a vital aspect of Deaf communication.
The culminating activity involves a narrative, “The Hitchhiker,” designed to assess comprehension and storytelling abilities. Successfully navigating this unit requires a solid grasp of spatial referencing, temporal signs, and the ability to construct coherent narratives in ASL. The answer key PDF serves as a crucial tool for self-assessment and reinforcement of these core concepts.
9.1 Amber’s Neighborhood: Vocabulary & Practice
Section 9.1, “Amber’s Neighborhood,” introduces essential vocabulary for describing locations and activities within a familiar setting. Students learn signs for places like stores, restaurants, and exercise facilities, forming the foundation for directional conversations. Practice exercises focus on identifying locations based on descriptions and constructing simple sentences about neighborhood routines.

The answer key PDF for this section provides correct responses to comprehension questions, ensuring students accurately interpret and utilize the new vocabulary. Key signs include those for “Macy’s” (often signed with a modified ‘M’ handshape and a sweeping motion), “Sam’s Deli” (incorporating signs for ‘sandwich’ and ‘eat’), and “ReMax” (representing house hunting).
Exercises emphasize spatial agreement, requiring students to accurately position signs to reflect the relative locations of places. Mastering this section is crucial for progressing to more complex directional tasks later in Unit 9. The answer key assists in clarifying any misunderstandings regarding sign choice and sentence structure, solidifying foundational skills.
9.2 ASL Stamps: Comprehension Questions
Section 9.2 utilizes visual ASL stamps to assess comprehension of signed narratives. Students analyze depictions of ASL signs, interpreting the meaning and context of short phrases or sentences presented visually. This section bridges the gap between receptive and expressive skills, demanding careful observation and linguistic decoding.
The answer key PDF provides detailed explanations for each comprehension question, clarifying the correct interpretation of the ASL stamps. Questions often focus on identifying the topic of the signed message, recognizing key vocabulary, and understanding the overall narrative flow. Students are expected to demonstrate a strong grasp of ASL grammar and non-manual markers.
This exercise reinforces the importance of visual discrimination and contextual understanding in ASL. The answer key not only provides the correct answers but also explains why those answers are correct, addressing potential areas of confusion. Mastering this section is vital for developing fluency in interpreting signed communication, a core skill emphasized throughout Unit 9 and beyond.
9.3 Write the Time: Exercises 1-6
Exercise 9.3 focuses on accurately signing time in ASL, a crucial skill for daily communication. Exercises 1-6 present a series of specific times – such as 7:45, 6:00, 9:03, 4:15, 2:55, and 11:11 – that students must translate into ASL glosses or demonstrate through fingerspelling and time-telling signs.
The answer key PDF provides the correct ASL representation for each time, detailing the proper sequence of signs and handshapes. It emphasizes the nuances of ASL time notation, including the use of “quarter past” and “half past” signs, as well as the distinction between “a.m.” and “p.m.”

This section builds a foundation for more complex time-related conversations. The answer key offers detailed explanations, helping students avoid common errors and develop a solid understanding of ASL temporal expressions. Successfully completing these exercises is essential for progressing to more advanced scenarios involving scheduling and appointments within Unit 9.
9.3 Write the Time: Specific Time Examples (7:45, 6:00, etc.)
This portion of Unit 9 drills students on converting conventional time formats into ASL. Specific examples like 7:45 (seven forty-five), 6:00 (six o’clock), 9:03 (nine oh-three), 4:15 (four fifteen), 2:55 (two fifty-five), and 11:11 (eleven eleven) are central to mastering ASL time-telling.
The answer key PDF meticulously details the correct ASL gloss for each time, showcasing the proper handshapes and movements. It clarifies how to sign quarter past, half past, and specific minute increments. Understanding these nuances is vital for accurate communication.
The answer key doesn’t just provide answers; it explains how to arrive at them, reinforcing the underlying principles of ASL time notation. This section prepares students for real-world scenarios where precise time expression is necessary. Resources like Course Hero often contain supplemental practice materials for these specific examples, aiding comprehension and retention.
9.3 Write the Time: Course Hero Examples (Gym, School, etc.)
Course Hero provides practical application exercises for Unit 9’s time-telling segment, contextualizing time within daily activities. Examples include scheduling gym sessions (1:00 PM, 2:30 PM), school commitments (11:30 AM, 12:05 PM), cooking times (5:50 PM, 7:00 PM), and even household chores like trimming trees (9:00 AM, 10:45 AM).
The answer key PDF, alongside Course Hero’s examples, demonstrates how to seamlessly integrate time signs with activity signs. It emphasizes the importance of establishing a clear sequence – first the activity, then the time; This ensures the message is easily understood by ASL signers.
These scenarios aren’t merely about stating the time; they’re about conveying plans and schedules. The answer key clarifies how to sign “going to” or “meeting at” to indicate future events. Course Hero’s examples, when paired with the answer key, offer a robust learning experience, solidifying time-telling skills in practical contexts.
9.4 Locations: Identifying Places 1-10
Unit 9.4 focuses on mastering location signs in ASL, presenting ten common places for identification practice. The answer key PDF provides the correct signs for each location, crucial for building foundational vocabulary. These include Macy’s (needing an umbrella), Sam’s Deli (for a sandwich), and ReMax (indicating house hunting).

The exercises challenge students to associate scenarios with specific locations, enhancing comprehension and recall. For example, recognizing the need for an umbrella at Macy’s demonstrates contextual understanding. The answer key confirms accurate sign usage and interpretation.
Further locations include Curves (for exercise), and various other establishments. Mastering these signs is vital for giving and receiving directions, a key skill covered later in the unit. The answer key PDF serves as an invaluable resource, ensuring students accurately identify and utilize these essential location signs in their ASL communication.
9.4 Locations: Macy’s & Umbrella Scenario
The Macy’s & Umbrella scenario in Unit 9.4 tests a student’s ability to connect a location with a related need or item. The answer key PDF confirms that the correct response to seeing Macy’s is to sign “NEED UMBRELLA.” This exercise emphasizes contextual ASL usage, moving beyond simple vocabulary recall.
The scenario requires students to understand that Macy’s, as a department store, is a place where one might encounter rain and therefore require an umbrella. This demonstrates practical application of location signs and the ability to anticipate associated items or situations.
The answer key highlights the importance of non-manual markers and facial expressions to convey the urgency or necessity of the umbrella. Correctly signing “NEED UMBRELLA” demonstrates proficiency in conveying a complete thought, not just isolated signs. This builds a foundation for more complex ASL storytelling and conversational skills.
9.4 Locations: Sam’s Deli & Sandwich Scenario
Within Unit 9.4, the Sam’s Deli & Sandwich scenario assesses a student’s ability to associate a specific location with a common item found there. The answer key PDF reveals the correct response to visualizing Sam’s Deli is to sign “SANDWICH.” This exercise reinforces practical ASL application and contextual understanding.
The scenario challenges students to recognize that a deli, like Sam’s Deli, is a place primarily known for selling sandwiches. This moves beyond rote memorization of location signs, demanding a comprehension of real-world associations. It’s about understanding why someone would go to that location.
The answer key emphasizes the importance of clear articulation and appropriate facial expressions when signing “SANDWICH” in this context. Conveying the idea of wanting or ordering a sandwich, rather than simply identifying the object, is crucial. This builds skills for initiating requests and engaging in basic transactions in ASL.
9.4 Locations: ReMax & House Hunting Scenario
The ReMax & House Hunting scenario in Unit 9.4 tests a student’s ability to connect a business location with its primary function. The answer key PDF confirms that visualizing ReMax requires signing “LOOKING FOR HOUSE (TO BUY).” This exercise emphasizes practical ASL usage and contextual comprehension.

This scenario isn’t simply about knowing the sign for “house” or “ReMax”; it’s about understanding the purpose of visiting a real estate agency. Students must demonstrate they grasp that people go to ReMax specifically to find a home to purchase. This moves beyond basic vocabulary to functional language application.
The answer key highlights the importance of incorporating classifiers to visually represent the act of searching or browsing for a house. Facial expressions conveying interest and the intent to buy are also crucial. Mastering this scenario builds skills for discussing housing and real estate in ASL, a common conversational topic.
9;5 Fill in the Space: Giving Directions
Unit 9.5, “Fill in the Space: Giving Directions,” challenges students to demonstrate their understanding of spatial relationships and directional signs in ASL. The answer key PDF provides the correct sequence of signs needed to complete various directional instructions. This section heavily relies on precise handshapes and movements to convey accurate information.
Exercises focus on signs like “TURN,” “LEFT,” “RIGHT,” “STRAIGHT,” and “BLOCK.” Students must not only know these signs individually but also combine them fluidly to create coherent directions. The answer key emphasizes the importance of establishing a clear point of reference before giving instructions, often using a “YOU” classifier.
Correct answers often include non-manual markers, such as head tilts and eye gaze, to further clarify the direction being indicated. The answer key PDF serves as a valuable tool for self-assessment, allowing students to compare their responses and identify areas for improvement in their directional signing skills.
9.6 Topic of Sentence: Identifying Main Ideas
Section 9.6, “Topic of Sentence: Identifying Main Ideas,” assesses a student’s ability to discern the core message within an ASL sentence. The answer key PDF provides the correct topic identification for a series of presented sentences, reinforcing comprehension skills. This exercise is crucial for developing receptive ASL skills, moving beyond literal translation.
The focus isn’t on translating every sign, but rather grasping the overarching theme. Students learn to prioritize key nouns and verbs that establish the sentence’s central idea. The answer key highlights how ASL often presents information in a topic-comment structure, differing from English sentence construction.
Correct answers demonstrate an understanding of ASL grammar and the ability to filter out descriptive details. The answer key PDF often includes explanations of why certain topic choices are more accurate than others, aiding in conceptual understanding. Mastering this skill is vital for effective ASL conversation and interpretation.
9.7 Describing Restaurants: Restaurant 1 & 2
Section 9.7, “Describing Restaurants: Restaurant 1 & 2,” challenges students to utilize descriptive ASL to convey restaurant attributes. The answer key PDF provides model descriptions, showcasing appropriate vocabulary and grammatical structures for discussing ambiance, food quality, and service. This section builds upon previously learned vocabulary related to food and locations.
Students are expected to describe key features, such as the restaurant’s atmosphere (e.g., noisy, quiet, romantic) and the type of cuisine offered. The answer key demonstrates how to use classifiers and spatial referencing to visually represent restaurant layouts and food presentation. Emphasis is placed on conveying information concisely and effectively.

The answer key PDF often includes variations in descriptions, acknowledging that multiple correct answers are possible. It highlights the importance of using appropriate facial expressions and body language to enhance the clarity and expressiveness of the descriptions. This section prepares students for real-world conversations about dining experiences.
9.8 Restaurant Details: Vocabulary Expansion
Section 9.8, “Restaurant Details: Vocabulary Expansion,” focuses on enriching students’ ASL lexicon related to the dining experience. The answer key PDF supports this by providing translations and contextual examples for new signs encountered in this unit. This builds upon the descriptive skills introduced in 9.7, allowing for more nuanced restaurant portrayals.

Vocabulary includes terms for specific food items, cooking methods, and service aspects like “bill,” “tip,” and “reservation.” The answer key often illustrates how to use these signs in complete sentences, demonstrating proper ASL grammar. Students learn to describe preferences (e.g., “I like spicy food”) and make requests (e.g., “I want water”).
The answer key PDF may also include fingerspelled words commonly used in restaurant settings, such as specific menu items or brand names. Emphasis is placed on understanding regional variations in signs and recognizing contextual clues. Mastering this vocabulary is crucial for confidently navigating restaurant interactions in the Deaf community.
9.9 Times and Activities: Matching Exercises
Unit 9.9, “Times and Activities: Matching Exercises,” assesses students’ ability to correlate specific times with corresponding actions, reinforcing the time-telling skills practiced in 9.3. The answer key PDF provides the correct pairings, ensuring accurate comprehension of temporal concepts in ASL.
These exercises typically present a list of times (e.g., 7:45, 6:00, 1:20) and a separate list of activities (e;g., exercise, school, cooking). Students must match each time to the appropriate activity based on contextual clues and established routines. The answer key clarifies any ambiguities and demonstrates how to express these pairings fluently in ASL.
The answer key PDF often includes example sentences illustrating how to discuss schedules and daily habits. It may also address common errors, such as misinterpreting time indicators or using incorrect verb tense. Course Hero examples show activities like going to the gym at 1:00 pm or attending school at 11:30 am, solidifying practical application.
9.10 Suggesting a Place to Eat: Minidialogue 1 (1-5)
Unit 9.10, “Suggesting a Place to Eat: Minidialogue 1 (1-5),” focuses on developing conversational skills for recommending restaurants in ASL. The answer key PDF provides the complete, signed dialogues, offering a model for students to emulate and practice their fluency;
These minidialogues typically involve two individuals discussing preferences and making suggestions for dining locations. The answer key details the ASL signs used, including facial expressions and body language, crucial for conveying meaning and politeness. It clarifies how to ask for and offer recommendations effectively.
The answer key PDF often breaks down each line of the dialogue, explaining the grammatical structure and cultural nuances. It may also include variations of the dialogue, demonstrating different ways to express the same ideas. Resources like Stuvia provide access to these dialogues, aiding in comprehension and recall. Mastering these exchanges builds confidence in real-world ASL interactions.
9.10 Suggesting a Place to Eat: Minidialogue 2 (1-5)
Unit 9.10’s second set of minidialogues (1-5) builds upon the first, refining students’ abilities to suggest restaurants and respond to preferences in ASL. The answer key PDF is essential for understanding the correct sign choices and conversational flow within these scenarios.
These dialogues often present more complex situations, perhaps involving dietary restrictions or specific cuisine requests. The answer key meticulously details each sign, emphasizing non-manual markers like facial expressions and head movements, which are vital for accurate ASL communication. It clarifies how to politely navigate differing opinions.
The answer key PDF may include annotations explaining the rationale behind certain sign selections, enhancing students’ understanding of ASL grammar. Platforms like Stuvia offer access to these resources, facilitating independent study and practice. Successfully navigating these dialogues demonstrates a growing proficiency in practical ASL conversation skills, preparing students for real-life interactions.
9;10 Suggesting a Place to Eat: Minidialogue 3 (1-4)
Unit 9.10’s final minidialogue set (1-4) represents a culmination of the skills practiced in previous sections, focusing on suggesting restaurants and responding to preferences in ASL. The answer key PDF provides crucial support for mastering these interactions, detailing appropriate sign choices and conversational structures.
These dialogues often introduce more nuanced scenarios, potentially involving budget considerations or specific ambiance requests. The answer key meticulously outlines each sign, paying close attention to non-manual markers – facial expressions and body language – essential for conveying politeness and understanding. It clarifies how to handle situations where a suggestion isn’t ideal.
The answer key PDF may offer explanations of ASL grammar principles demonstrated in the dialogues, deepening students’ comprehension. Resources like Stuvia provide access to these materials, supporting self-directed learning. Successfully completing these dialogues signifies a strong grasp of practical ASL communication skills, preparing students for authentic conversations.
9.11 Digital Signature Certification Authorities: Key Aspects

Interestingly, Unit 9 briefly touches upon Digital Signature Certification Authorities, a seemingly unrelated topic within the broader context of ASL learning. The answer key PDF, however, addresses this section, likely as a supplementary exercise in comprehension or critical thinking. It assesses understanding of how these authorities function in the digital world.
Key aspects covered include the role of these authorities in verifying identities and ensuring the authenticity of digital documents. The answer key clarifies that a core function is issuing and validating digital signatures, and importantly, that a fee is charged for these services. This contrasts with free or open-source alternatives.
The answer key PDF likely presents questions designed to differentiate between legitimate authorities and potential scams. Understanding these concepts, while not directly ASL-related, demonstrates analytical skills. Resources like online documentation supplement the Signing Naturally materials, providing further context on this technological aspect.
9.11 Digital Signature Certification Authorities: Fee Structures
The Signing Naturally Unit 9 answer key PDF dedicates a portion to Digital Signature Certification Authorities and, specifically, their fee structures. This section, while unexpected within an ASL curriculum, likely aims to develop analytical skills and contextual understanding.
The answer key emphasizes that these authorities invariably charge fees for their services. These fees cover the costs associated with identity verification, issuing digital certificates, and maintaining the security infrastructure necessary for validating signatures. Different authorities offer varying pricing models, often tiered based on the level of assurance and the duration of the certificate.
Factors influencing costs include the type of certificate (individual, organization, extended validation), the validity period (one year, two years, etc.), and any bundled services like technical support or insurance. The answer key PDF likely presents scenarios or questions requiring students to compare different fee structures and identify the most appropriate option for a given situation. Understanding these costs is crucial for informed decision-making in digital transactions.
9.13 Cultural Note: Keeping Others Informed ⎻ Comprehension
The Signing Naturally Unit 9 answer key PDF includes a Cultural Note section focusing on the importance of keeping others informed within the Deaf community. This isn’t merely politeness; it’s a core cultural value stemming from the reliance on visual communication and the potential for missed information.
The answer key likely provides comprehension questions designed to assess understanding of this principle. These questions probably explore scenarios where failing to provide information could lead to misunderstandings or exclusion. For example, questions might address informing someone of a change in plans, ensuring everyone sees a signed conversation, or repeating information for clarity.
The emphasis is on proactive communication and anticipating the needs of others. The answer key likely highlights how this practice fosters inclusivity and strengthens community bonds. It reinforces that effective ASL communication extends beyond accurate signing to encompass cultural sensitivity and a commitment to ensuring everyone remains connected and informed.
9.14 Story: The Hitchhiker ౼ Questions 1-15
The Signing Naturally Unit 9 answer key PDF provides solutions for comprehension questions related to “The Hitchhiker” story. This narrative is designed to test ASL comprehension skills, focusing on narrative structure, character identification, and understanding implied meaning within a visual language context.
Questions 1-15 likely cover key plot points, character motivations, and details about the hitchhiker’s journey. The answer key will offer correct responses, potentially including explanations of why certain answers are more accurate than others. Students can use this to self-assess their understanding of the story’s events and the ASL used to convey them.
Expect questions to address visual details, emotional expressions, and the overall message of the story. The answer key serves as a valuable tool for reinforcing vocabulary, grammar, and the ability to interpret ASL narratives. It’s crucial for mastering the nuances of storytelling in ASL.
9.14 Story: The Hitchhiker ⎻ Narrative Summary
The Signing Naturally Unit 9 answer key PDF includes a summary of “The Hitchhiker” story, providing a concise overview of the narrative’s key events. This summary is designed to aid students in understanding the overall plot and identifying the main characters and their interactions. It serves as a reference point for comprehension and analysis.
The story likely follows a protagonist who encounters a hitchhiker, leading to a series of events that unfold through ASL storytelling. The answer key’s summary will highlight the crucial moments, character development, and the story’s resolution. Students can use this to verify their understanding of the narrative’s flow.

This summary is particularly helpful for those learning to retell stories in ASL, as it provides a structured framework for recalling and presenting the information. The answer key reinforces the importance of narrative structure and clear communication in ASL storytelling.
Answer Key Availability & Resources
Accessing the Signing Naturally Unit 9 answer key PDF requires exploring various online resources. While an official, readily available PDF might not be universally accessible, students can find support through platforms like Course Hero and Stuvia. These sites often host student-shared documents, including workbooks and answer keys, though access may require a subscription or purchase.
Additionally, instructors frequently provide answer keys directly to students enrolled in courses utilizing the Signing Naturally curriculum. Checking with classmates or the course instructor is a valuable step. CliffsNotes also offers supplementary materials and homework help related to the series.
It’s important to note that relying solely on answer keys can hinder learning. Utilizing them for self-assessment and clarification, rather than direct copying, is crucial for mastering ASL concepts. Remember to prioritize understanding the material over simply finding the correct answers.
Unit 9 Assessment Review
The Signing Naturally Unit 9 assessment comprehensively evaluates student understanding of key concepts introduced throughout the unit. This includes practical application of vocabulary related to Amber’s Neighborhood, proficiency in expressing time, and the ability to provide clear directions. Students are tested on their comprehension of ASL stamps and their skill in identifying topics within sentences.
Furthermore, the assessment gauges understanding of restaurant descriptions, the nuances of suggesting dining locations through minidialogues, and awareness of cultural notes regarding keeping others informed. A significant portion focuses on narrative comprehension, specifically analyzing “The Hitchhiker” story with detailed questions.
Reviewing the Unit 9 answer key (available through resources like Stuvia and potentially Course Hero) is beneficial for identifying areas needing improvement. However, focus should remain on understanding the underlying ASL principles, not just memorizing answers. Thorough preparation ensures success on the assessment and fosters lasting language acquisition.