How to Learn Sign Language Names

American Sign Language (ASL) is a vibrant, complex language that is continually being expanded on with new and alternate signs. Because all communication is performed through physical gestures and facial expressions, it's important to remember that even similar hand signs may have different meanings depending on the orientation of the face and body. Sign language names can either be expressed by signing each letter of the name, or creating a new hand sign unique to a particular individual.

Things You'll Need

• ASL dictionary and instructional videos ASL classes (optional)

Instructions

1. Study, practice and memorize each letter of the ASL alphabet. You may use worksheets, videos or attend ASL classes in order to perfect your signing of each letter so that the movements become familiar to you (see Resources below).

2. Decide whether you prefer to spell your name out in signs or that you'd like to create a unique sign symbolizing your name. In ASL culture, sign language names are usually bestowed upon someone by friends and family who know them well. The sign will represent a significant part of the person's temperament or personality, and is almost always very positive.

3. Learn your own ASL name, then inquire the names of others and have them execute the sign for this repeatedly.

4. Practice the sign with them, and ask them if you are forming it correctly. Think of this sign as an extension of the person's face in order to better remember it.

5. Be aware of regional differences when learning sign language names. For example, if you are learning how to sign proper nouns, such as the name of a city or a state, don't be surprised to see that the locals' way of signing the name may be slightly different from the way you were shown by an instructor, video or ASL-fluent acquaintance.

Tips & Warnings

• Learning any form of sign language requires time, patience and practice. Don't expect to retain everything in one session. Like spoken languages, each country (and often regions within a country) will have its own version of sign language.

• Be careful that you are executing a person's sign language name accurately. Even a slight difference in hand movement could accidentally signify something negative in ASL.

Resources

• Free online resources for learning ASLs
• ASL practice worksheets