Expansion in American Sign Language pertains the amount of detail or information that is being given to interpret a topic and expand on the idea being expressed.
The following are seven strategies that have been identified as part of the expansion process:
1. Contrasting – highlighting one idea by juxtaposing (compare) to emphasize the one. Usually start with positive, then the negative, then restate positive.
2. Faceting – Describes a feature where several different signs are sequentially to express one idea more clearly. Although several signs are used, this feature actually narrows a concept to a more exact or specific image. Usually used with adjectives or adverbs.
3. Reiteration – A sign or phrase is repeated. The repetition may be immediate or occur at the start and the end of sentence. This implies emphasis: that something is important to the storyline, has cultural significance or has high emotional impact to the signer.
4. Utilizing 3D Space – Space is utilized in setting up nouns, pronouns-referential space, proximal relationships-topographical space. Classifiers are another way information is conveyed and space is used. Space can be referential, topographical, by using spatial mapping and/or classifiers.
5. Explaining by Example – When a concept requires expansion, examples can be used to explain the idea more in depth.
6. Couching/Scaffolding – A series of signs are grouped together to form a concept. Background information is added to make a concept clear. This technique can include several of the expansions; 3D space, explaining by example, contrasting or just explaining the concept.
7. Describe then Do – The signer shifts from a narrative to a first person perspective. The signer becomes the character after describing the situation.