How to Sign "Can U Lip Read" in American Sign Language

Conversing with someone who is deaf doesn't need to be uncomfortable or avoided if you don't know sign language. In fact, the majority of people who are deaf are skilled in lip reading and can carry on a conversation with anyone not versed in sign language quite easily. Put a hearing impaired person at ease by letting them know you are willing to give it a try by using sign language to ask them if they can lip read.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Know the American Sign Language sign for "read." Make the letter V by tucking the little and ring fingers down to the palm with the thumb. The pointer and middle finger will be up. The letter V hand shape sign looks like the commonly used peace sign.

2. Bend the 2 V fingers slightly. The V hand shape is used in many signs to represent the eyes. When you move the V sign over the palm of your other hand, it describes someone reading a book.

3. To describe someone reading lips, move the bent V fingers toward the face and move your hand around in a little circle in front of your lips. The sign is supposed to describe two eyes watching the mouth.

4. Put it all together. Point to the person who you are asking if they can read lips, then make the sign for lip reading in front of your own mouth. Say, "Can you lip read?" while you make the sign.

Resources

• Learn American Sign Language