How to Learn British Sign Language
British Sign Language, or BSL, is the most commonly used sign language in the United Kingdom. Approximately 70,000 people in the UK use BSL as their primary language. In 2003, BSL was recognized as an official minority language, making it comparable in standing with Gaelic or Welsh. BSL is a visual language, incorporating facial expressions, hand signs and overall body language.
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Instructions
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Using your chart or a BSL book, study the BSL two-handed alphabet. Practice until you have it memorized and can do it fluently.
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Fingerspell words using the BSL alphabet. Begin by spelling out short words, like 'pen,' and gradually build up to longer words, like 'Manchester.'
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Learn to sign simple vocabulary words by studying websites or BSL sign books. The website british-sign.co.uk is a good website for basic vocabulary signs.
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Enrol in a BSL course. This can be done online, but is best done in person, with a qualified BSL teacher. http://www.bbc.co.uk/seehear/info/bsl.shtml is a good site to help you find online resources and BSL classes near you.
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Practice signing regularly, both in and outside of class. You can practice on your own, but it will be most beneficial to practice with a deaf person who uses BSL as their primary language.
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Tips & Warnings
Practice with another person as often as possible. Otherwise you are likely to lose what you have learned.
BSL is not a direct translation of spoken English, so do not expect it to follow the same grammatical rules. Sign language is not universal; many countries have their own unique sign language. There are even regional dialects found within the same sign language.
References
Resources
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