Essential Sign Language Phrases for Communication
For those interested in learning sign language, the journey begins with mastering a few key phrases. Whether you're studying for a personal or professional reason, learning sign language can open up new avenues of communication and empathy. This article explores some common and useful phrases to get you started.
Key Resources for Learning Sign Language
Before diving into the world of sign language, it's essential to have the right resources. Two highly recommended books are:
The Joy of Signing by Lottie L Riekehof. This book is available both in print and as an e-book. American Sign Language Dictionary by Martin L.A. Sternberg. This dictionary serves as a comprehensive guide to the signs used in ASL.While the e-books are convenient, having the physical books can make learning even more effective. If you can't find them in print, the digital versions are a great alternative.
Important Phrases to Learn
Greetings
Hi: Hi is a simple sign that can be used in both casual and formal situations. It involves making an "H" with both hands, bringing them together, and separating them. Hello: Sign "hello" by making a "H" shape with both hands and bringing them together, then pushing them apart again.Directions and Directions Signs
Left: Use the index finger of your dominant hand to point slightly to the left while forming a forward-facing palm. Right: Do the same as for left, but point slightly to the right.Things to Do
Family: Sign "family" by making a closed handshape with your dominant hand and moving it in front of your chest, as if embracing the people in your family. School: Use the sign for "school" by forming a "C" shape with both hands and moving them apart. Work: Sign "work" by making a "V" shape with your index and middle fingers and bringing them together, then separating them.Emergency Situations
Hospital: Form a "C" shape with your index and middle fingers, bringing them together, and then separating them again. Police: Sign "police" by making a "T" shape with your dominant hand, pointing it toward the other person or your chest. Help: Use the sign for "help" by making a "C" shape with both hands and bringing them together, then pushing them apart.Body Parts and Feelings
Hand: Sign "hand" by making a "C" shape with your dominant hand and moving it up to your hand. Head: Use the sign for "head" by making a "C" shape with your dominant hand and moving it up to your head. Feel sick: Sign "feel sick" by touching your temple with your dominant hand, then bending your head slightly to the side.Learning the Alphabet in ASL
Mastering the alphabet is a crucial step in learning sign language. The reason for this is that learning the alphabet provides a foundation for understanding the context and direction of signs. Here's why:
Foundation for Signs: All signs in ASL are based on the letters of the alphabet. Learning these first helps you understand the structure and formation of more complex signs. Direction: When learning signs from books or online, the signs are usually directed toward the signer. However, when you practice in front of a mirror, you can see the correct direction of the signs, which helps you avoid signing backward. Consistency: Practicing in front of a mirror ensures that you are signing correctly, which contributes to a consistent and fluid signing performance.Practicing Sign Language in a Mirror
Practicing in front of a mirror is a simple yet effective method for improving your sign language skills. Here are some tips:
Learn the Alphabet First: Start by learning the first 4 to 5 letters of the alphabet. Use the books mentioned above for reference. Practice in Front of a Mirror: Stand in front of the mirror and sign the letters you've learned. Do this again to ensure that the signs look the same as in the books. Understand Direction: Make sure you are signing the letters in the correct direction, facing the person you are signing to. This practice will help you avoid signing backward.By following these steps, you'll cross the first hurdle to learning sign language and build a strong foundation for more advanced signs.
Additional Resources
YouTube is an invaluable resource for learning sign language. Many videos provide visual demonstrations of signs, which can be more effective than written instructions. For instance, the sign for "please" is the letter A circled around the heart area. This visually illustrates the importance of learning the alphabet first.
Conclusion
Mastering sign language takes time and practice, but with the right resources and dedication, you can communicate effectively in this language. Remember to start with the basics, including greetings, directions, and the alphabet. With practice, you'll be signing like a pro in no time!