I decided to use a resource that was posted earlier by Brynn who is also learning ASL for her learning project. This week I watched a Youtube video teaching 25 signs you need to know as a beginner in the language.
In the other videos, apps, and resources I have used leading up to this point I was not aware of 5 key aspects that are important in signing.
- Palm orientation
- Hand shape
- Movement
- Location
- Non-manual signals
I am still finding it tough when it comes to the hand shapes and movements. Also watching some videos they do not explain the palm orientation or how to properly create the movements to ensure I am signing the words or sayings correctly.
I liked this video as I feel like she gave a good explanation as to why we use certain fingers or hands when signing. I do wish she performed the signs a little slower or explained how to fully form the sign using your hands. Which she did do for some of the signs but not all of them. Technically you can slow the video down which helps to an extent but more descriptive explanation could have helped in guiding me in my learning.
This may seem slightly contradictory but I did like how she explained some of the signs. When she was teaching the sign “yes” she explained it like a head nod but with your fist. Or the sign “no” is like combining the finger spelling letters “n” and “o”. I feel like this is a good way to remember the signs because it gives an example of what it is representing.
Since this was a short video and I already knew a few of these signs, I decided to watch a second video from the same person. This video focused on learning signs for families. A fun little fact that I had learned was that masculine signs are at the top half of the face, and feminine signs are at the bottom half of the face. Which is a great way to remember the difference between mom and dad!
Since my pictures were too large to add… I followed the lead from the recent raves about using Canva and added my images that way.
Happy learning y’all
4 Comments
Hanzalah
Hi Alycia, Thank you for sharing you posts. The whole concept of palm reading has been something which I have questioned. I thought it was amazing that you gave me a little insight to that.
Mckenzie keibel
Hey Alycia!
Loved reading your post! It’s cool to see how you’re learning ASL. I can totally see how palm orientation and hand shapes could be tricky!cThe tips about slowing down the video are super helpful. I also found it interesting how you pointed out the difference between masculine and feminine signs. That’s such a smart way to remember! Can’t wait to see how your ASL skills grow. Keep it up!
Robin Kinnee
Hi Alycia,
Wow! I never realized how much goes into sign language. I had no idea that palm orientation could change the meaning of a sign. I think it’s really cool that you are learning this. I have seen quite a few early-grade teachers use sign language in their classrooms. I think it’s a neat skill to teach kids, and it makes the classroom more inclusive for kids who may not be able to talk. I am wondering how often you practice your sign language, where you practice it, and who you practice with. Maybe that could be a blog you write about. Thanks for sharing!
Robin
Amie Sutton
Hi Alycia,
There is a lot that goes in to sign language! It sounds a lot like learning French where you have to learn the masculine and feminine of certain objects/people. I think you are doing a great job, well done!