How to Learn the Alphabet in Sign Language

Knowing how to fingerspell the alphabet in sign language provides the signer with a basic ability to communicate in sign language. It is useful for naming proper nouns or spelling certain short words. According to fingerspellingalphabet.com, "fingerspelling can also be used to spell words for signs that the signer does not know the sign for, or to clarify a sign that is not known by the person reading the signer. Fingerspelling signs are often also incorporated into other signs" (Reference 1). Learning the the ASL alphabet takes practice, but with a few exercises and a moderate amount of time, it is a very reachable goal. This article will focus on directions for learning the American Sign Language alphabet, or ASL.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• sheet of all alphabet signs

1. Place your hand in the proper position. Your hand will be at about chin level, but should not cover your mouth. When you form signs, make sure the signs face away from you, but not directly toward the person you are talking to. According to lifeprint.com, "In general the palm of your hand faces 10 o'clock on the horizontal plane. Trying to force your palm to directly face the person you are signing to is uncomfortable for your wrist. But, you also don't want to be 'spelling to yourself' either" (Reference 2).

2. Learn a few letters at a time. Beginning with A, form the first few letters of the alphabet, and repeat these letters until you are comfortable. Then, add more letters. Continue this practice until you have memorized the hand formations for all 26 letters.

3. Fingerspell simple words. Form each letter in a deliberate, clear manner. Practice in a mirror to allow yourself to see your communication skills.

4. Practice with a partner. Have your partner fingerspell a word that you can practice reading. Then, fingerspell your own word and have your partner read. Continue to take turns until you are comfortable reading and spelling at a moderate pace.

Tips & Warnings

• According to lifeprint.com, "Two of the fingerspelled letters trace their shape in the air: 'Z' and 'J'" (Reference 2). Always verbalize the letters as you sign them.
• Although learning the ASL alphabet is an excellent first step in developing knowledge of sign language, do not expect to be fluent in ASL at this point in your development. Learning ASL takes time and commitment, and learning the alphabet is only the beginning.

References

• finger spelling alphabet (ASL)
• Sign Language Finger Spelling

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