A Guide To Learning American Sign Language

Sign languages use means of visual communication - predominately using facial and bodily movements. They typically combine shapes, orientation and movement of the hands, arms or body, and facial expressions to express ideas. Many forms of signing have developed in deaf communities and in North America the most commonly used variety is American Sign Language.

As one of more than 100 sign languages in the world, American Sign Language is the fourth most commonly used language in the U.S. It has its own grammatical rules and semantics, and is in no way grammatically similar to English.

Essentially, "signing" is the process of transmitting thoughts via moving and gesturing with one's facial muscles, hands and body. Signers also refer to the space in direct proximity to themselves in order to address remote people, things or places.

Not only does ASL have a different grammatical and semantic foundation from English, but it also diverges from other sign languages. Just as people in different countries speak different languages, so too do signers in different countries use different sign languages.

Verbal communication is brought about through the use of different sounds. These are created by words and tones of voice (or intonation). Sign Language originates from the premise that sight is the most useful tool with which a deaf person has to express themselves, uses many more "tools" to convey words. These include the shape, position, and movement of the hand, body movements, gestures, and facial expressions.

A working knowledge of American Sign Language takes some time to develop. Even a highly disciplined learner should realize that they may need to devote a couple of years of daily study and practice to signing. Newcomers to the sign language should also note that, as with other languages, there are conventions and variations due to signers' sex, age, cultural background and place of origin.

ASL learning options can range from private tutoring with a signer... to purchasing a self-study program (e.g. books and DVDs)... to Internet based learning... to attending classes at a university, community college, school for the deaf, or private training organization. In all cases, however, the best means of mastering ASL is to communicate with other signers as often as possible.

There are certainly a variety of places offering American Sign Language training. Some of these may be more or less expensive so it behooves you to thoroughly check out a given course or program (and the organization providing it) before committing your time and money towards it. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that the journey towards ASL proficiency is a worthwhile one. You'll not only end up possessing the ability to communicate with the majority of deaf Americans, but you'll discover a challenging and fascinating language as well. Good luck!