How to Learn Sign Language & Finger Spelling

Learn sign language and finger spelling.

Learning sign language allows you to communicate with those that are deaf or hearing impaired. It is a system of hand symbols used to represent words, along with an alphabet that you can use to spell additional words. You can learn sign language through a variety of resources, but the key is to practice every day. Doing so will allow you to remember all of the signs, improve the speed at which you can sign and increase your sign reading comprehension.

Instructions

1. Learn the signing alphabet. The great thing about finger spelling is that it allows you to communicate your thoughts even though you don't know the correct sign. That makes it a great place to start. You can learn the signing alphabet through websites or books. Practice it along with the ABC song. Spell out words to increase your speed.

2. Use a signing dictionary to learn more signs. Though finger spelling is easy, sign language is more efficient--a single sign represents a word. Sign language dictionaries--either online or in print--allow you to look up words as you need them. You can commit to learning a few signs every day. Start with some of the words that you use most often and the build on your knowledge.

3. Take a sign language course. Many community colleges offer sign language courses to the general public. You can also find courses online. Taking a course will allow you to learn signs in a logical way, starting with some of the most common signs.

4. Practice signing with a friend. The only way to gain fluency in sign language is to practice it. You should do this with a friend so that you can practice communicating your own thoughts and feelings, but also so you can learn to recognize signs when someone else does them.

Tips & Warnings

• Note that American Sign Language and sign language used in other countries are not the same. There is no universal sign language.

References

• American Sign Language University: American Sign Language