Nicaraguan Sign Language

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A language of Nicaragua

ISO 639-3
ncs
Alternate Names
Idioma de Señas de Nicaragua
Population

3,000 (1997 ANSNIC). 3,000 (1997 ANSNIC).

Location

Widespread, especially Managua.

Language Status

5 (Developing).

Classification
Deaf sign language
Dialects

2 sign languages in Nicaragua. Unrelated to El Salvadoran [esn], Costa Rican [csr], or other sign languages.

Language Use

Increasing use among hearing people. Users know little Spanish [spa].

Language Development
Taught in primary and secondary schools. Dictionary.
Language Resources
OLAC resources in and about Nicaraguan Sign Language
Writing
SignWriting.
Other Comments

There was no strong Nicaraguan deaf community until the late 1970s when Nicaraguan Sign Language emerged from the increased focus on deaf education and the establishment of the national deaf association, Asociación Nacional de Sordos de Nicaragua (ANSNIC).