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March is Reading Month, an excellent time to celebrate the beauty of language in all its forms. Like English, American Sign Language (ASL) begins with an alphabet. Remember being taught to follow along with your finger, underlining each word in a book? Jim Kwik still recommends this method. Before you could follow along, you needed to learn the letters of the alphabet and how they come together to form words.
Imagine taking your finger out of the book and creating handshapes for each letter in the air. Your fingers dance from shape to shape, spelling out any word you can imagine. As you fingerspell, the sounds of voices transform into expressions and movements, conveying a story like a performance on stage or a vivid picture. This foundation of ASL introduces learners to language, and whether hearing or Deaf, language access opens pathways in our brains for limitless learning and communication.
The Building Blocks of ASL: Fingerspelling
The ASL alphabet consists of 26 handshapes, each representing a letter of the English alphabet. These handshapes don't just stand alone; they often find their way into signs. For example, the letter 'Y' is used in the sign for 'PLAY,' with both hands swinging back and forth in a joyful motion that visually captures the essence of having fun.
Just like letters combine to form words in spoken and written languages, fingerspelling in ASL uses letters to represent names, cities, proper nouns, and words without established signs—or to provide clarification. In the Deaf community, people often use initialized names. For example, my sign name begins with 'K,' the first letter of my name, and spirals along the side of my face to represent my curly hair. Do bear in mind that only a Deaf person has the authority to give someone a sign name. Receiving a name sign is a mark of respect and acceptance by the Deaf community.
The Five Parameters of ASL
To fully grasp ASL, it's crucial to understand its five key parameters.
Handshape: The shape your hand makes when signing.
Location: The position of the sign in relation to the body.
Movement: The way the sign moves.
Palm Orientation: The direction your palm faces.
Non-Manual Markers (Facial Expressions): The expressions and body language accompanying signs.
These parameters are essential when learning ASL signs. In My Monster Truck Goes Everywhere with Me, the little boy signs 'HAPPY,' 'SAD,' 'AFRAID,' and 'THANK YOU'—each with a facial expression that matches the communication concept. In ASL, facial expressions are as important as hand movements because they add clarity and emotion to communication.
Tips for Mastering Fingerspelling
Learning to fingerspell takes practice. Fluent signers spell so quickly that it can seem impossible to catch all the letters. But with practice, your fingers will feel and look like they are dancing in the air with specific communication, mastering this magical skill!
Here are some tips to help you:
Clarity over speed: Focus on forming each letter clearly before thinking about speed.
Recognize letter patterns: Instead of spelling each letter individually, start recognizing common letter combinations like 'TH,' 'ING,' and 'TION.'
Understand handshapes: Like written letters, ASL letters have different heights. Letters like 'A,' 'E,' and 'O' are short; 'B,' 'K,' and 'L' are tall. The wrist bends downward for 'P' and 'Q.' Only the letters 'J' and 'Z' have movement.
Avoid bouncing: Keeping your hand steady makes fingerspelling easier to read.
Use natural spacing: Just like writing, pause slightly between words to improve readability.
Practice daily: Use a mirror to watch yourself sign. Spell out words from billboards, license plates, or even your grocery list.
Teach a friend: Practicing fingerspelling with a partner can make learning fun and interactive.
Sign up for a class: Visit our resource page to find ASL Fingerspelling classes.
For students, fingerspelling is an incredible tool for improving spelling skills. Imagine practicing your weekly spelling words using ASL—what a fun way to reinforce learning and boost confidence in both English and ASL!
Keep Practicing and Keep Signing!
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language that connects people across communities. Whether you're beginning or refining your skills, keep practicing and embracing the joy of signing. Fingerspelling is the start, opening the door to a world of communication, culture, and connection.
To enhance your learning experience, consider these additional tips:
· Watch and copy the signers in our Video-Books
· Use the resources we provided
· Join a face-to-face class
· If you have an opportunity, learn from a Deaf signer
ASL Picture Books Resources provide you with trusted sites, knowing they will teach you ASL correctly, not made-up, home signs, or sloppy signing. Learn from the start to do it right, and soon, you will be fluent in fingerspelling and on your way to ASL fluency. As you watch each video, look for and practice with Michelle and Diana!
Additionally, immerse yourself in the Deaf community by attending local events or socials. Engaging with other signers will boost your skills and deepen your understanding of Deaf culture and its nuances.
Keep in mind that practice is essential. Regularly signing with others, even if it's in short conversations, can significantly accelerate your progress. Learning ASL is a journey—enjoy every moment of it!
This Reading Month, challenge yourself to learn the ASL alphabet, practice fingerspelling, and share the gift of language with those around you. Happy signing!
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Limitless Potential of ASL: ASL Picture Books Sign Language Blog is a platform that invites you to explore the world of American Sign Language and the Deaf community. The blog offers insights, author interviews, and educational materials for anyone interested in ASL education and Deaf culture. It's a valuable resource, whether you're new to ASL or a seasoned member of the Deaf community. Subscribe today for free to start your ASL journey with us!
Kathleen Marcath advocates for literacy, and the Deaf community is passionate about creating inclusive spaces through ASL Picture Books. With a B.A. in Deaf Studies and a deep love for storytelling, Kathleen works tirelessly to inspire young readers and empower educators.
When Kathleen isn’t writing, she is busy connecting with audiences through dynamic author visits—both virtual and in-person. These sessions bring ASL to life and leave lasting impressions on students, classrooms, libraries, and organizations.
Want to bring the magic of ASL Picture Books to your community? Schedule an author visit today! Whether you’re an educator, librarian, or parent, these visits are the perfect way to inspire children and celebrate Deaf culture through engaging stories and activities.
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