How to Learn Basic American Sign Language

American Sign Language (ASL) isn't simply learning signs for English words and putting them together according to the grammar you already know. Instead, ASL has its own structure and relies on your overall expressiveness, not just shapes you make with your hands, to convey your ideas. You can get started by learning the basics of American Sign Language.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Understand deaf culture so you can approach ASL with respect and better understand its speakers. Many people who are deaf, especially those deaf from birth, don't view deafness as a disability. Instead, they view it as part of their life experience, much like the experience of an ethnic culture that isn't fully assimilated into the dominant culture.
2. Teach yourself the American Sign Language alphabet using photographs or videos of the alphabet signs to make sure you understand what each finger does. Go online for a clear image of each sign to help you learn (see Resources below).
3. Gain a familiarity with common words and terms. Michigan State University's Communication Technology Laboratory maintains the American Sign Language Browser, which contains an extensive dictionary of ASL signs. Watch these videos and practice the signs in a mirror to expand your ASL vocabulary (see Resources below).
4. Take a class in American Sign Language to get a formal understanding of how to communicate in ASL, including ways to use your face expressively. Most community colleges offer classes in ASL. If not, check the continuing education or community education programs offered by state universities near you.
5. Interact with others who speak American Sign Language on a regular basis. To make this a satisfying experience for both you and those you speak with, don't just practice your ASL with them. Instead, have real conversations with them.

Tips & Warnings

• ASL has an extensive vocabulary, but if you can't think of the sign for something, you can always spell it out. The person you're talking with can then show you the sign for the word you're saying.