Many aspiring private interpreters are uncomfortable using the box and whisker charts because they believe that this type of chart requires a person to know something they do not. To help prevent this problem, it is important to understand that the chart is quite easy to use and therefore does not require an interpreter to be skilled in any way.
The chart was created to help any interpreter who works with strangers understand what the chart represents. In essence, it is just a visual representation of a two dimensional plot. This type of chart was created to teach any novice interpreter exactly what a whisker plot is all about, and how the chart can be used in interpreting American Sign Language.
The whisker plot has both curves and lines that represent the speaker’s speech scene. It is important to note that the speaker is speaking in speech, so the shape of the whisker plot corresponds to a curved line in the speech.
The chart is available in most colleges and universities, so it is very easy to find. A person can also find the chart in books of interpretive methodologies or textbooks. Some of the most common examples of the chart include the first four plot examples that are shown below.
The second plot consists of a line, but there is only one line. The lines that form this chart are all straight, but as the speaker moves his lips, the lines are curved. The speaker’s head and shoulders also move on their own as the lines become more curved.
The third plot has an interlocking pattern that is composed of two-whisker plots, but only one has lines between the points. The whisker plot that connects the points has four points that are connected by lines. The lines that connect the points are not necessarily straight, but they are parallel. The interpreter will notice that the speech lines between the points form a piece of plastic and will not be able to read the lines unless he reads from right to left.
The fourth plot consists of a line that is also curved, but a whisker plot divides the lines into two portions. The lines that define the boundary between the lines have been rotated and therefore will not always appear in the same order as the lines were placed. It is important to note that the line dividing the whisker plot is clearly visible.
An interpreter should begin each interpreting session by reading the following chart. This will help the interpreter quickly learn the use of the whisker plots and can save a lifetime of frustration for future interpreters.
