What is American Sign Language?
In signing, the brain processes linguistic information through the eyes as American Sign Language (ASL) is a visual language. The shape, placement, and movement of the hands, along with facial expressions and body movements, all play vital roles in conveying information.
Each country has its own sign language, and regions have dialects, similar to the many languages spoken worldwide, emphasizing that sign language is not universal. American Sign Language, like any spoken language, follows its own unique rules of grammar and syntax. Furthermore, American Sign Language, like all languages, grows and evolves over time, signifying its status as a living language.
ASL predominates in the United States and many parts of Canada, with many high schools, colleges, and universities across the United States accepting American Sign Language to fulfill modern and “foreign” language academic degree requirements.
History of ASL
The origins of ASL trace back to Abee de l’Épée in Paris, France, in the mid-18th century. From there, it can be linked to Laurent Clerc and Thomas Gallaudet, who brought French Sign Language (LSF) to America in 1817 (Lane, Hoffmeister, and Bahan, 1996).
The blending of LSF and the signed language used by English settlers on Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts in the early 1600s formed the linguistic foundation for modern ASL. Just as all languages evolve, ASL has also developed over time and has been passed down from one generation to the next within the Deaf Community, ensuring its continued vitality as a language. ASL stands as a truly indigenous American language, and at Clemson University, students have the opportunity to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in Modern Languages with a concentration in ASL.
Is sign language the same in other countries?
There is no universal sign language, as different countries or regions use different sign languages. For instance, British Sign Language (BSL) constitutes a distinct language from ASL, and individuals proficient in ASL may not comprehend BSL. Additionally, some countries incorporate features of ASL into their sign languages.
How does ASL compare with spoken language?
Comparing American Sign Language (ASL) with spoken language reveals fascinating insights into communication modalities. ASL, a visual language, relies on hand gestures, facial expressions, and body movements for expression, whereas spoken language utilizes auditory signals.
Despite these differences, both American Sign Language and spoken language share fundamental linguistic elements such as grammar and syntax. However, ASL’s spatial grammar and non-linear structure set it apart from spoken languages. While spoken languages differ in phonetics and vocal articulation, ASL varies in handshape, movement, location, and palm orientation.
Moreover, ASL’s rich visual nature facilitates nuanced expression, often conveying emotions and concepts vividly. In essence, while ASL and spoken language diverge in their modalities, they share underlying linguistic principles, each offering unique strengths in communication.
How do most children learn ASL?
Most children learn American Sign Language through visual observation and interactive engagement. From infancy, exposure to American Sign Language occurs naturally within deaf families or communities where ASL is the primary mode of communication. Parents and caregivers often incorporate signs into everyday interactions, such as during playtime, mealtime, and bedtime routines.
Additionally, many children acquire ASL through early intervention programs, preschools, or educational settings tailored to deaf or hard-of-hearing students. These environments provide structured learning opportunities, including ASL classes, storytelling, and interactive activities designed to enhance language development.
Furthermore, technological advancements have facilitated ASL learning through online resources, interactive apps, and educational videos. Overall, exposure to ASL from an early age, coupled with immersive and engaging experiences, fosters natural acquisition and fluency among children in the deaf community.
Why emphasize early language learning?
Emphasizing early language learning is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, during early childhood, the brain is highly receptive to language acquisition, making it an optimal time for learning. By exposing children to language early on, they develop strong linguistic foundations that support communication skills and cognitive development throughout life.
Secondly, early language learning promotes social interaction and emotional development. Language is a vital tool for expressing thoughts, feelings, and needs, facilitating meaningful connections with others. Through language, children develop empathy, perspective-taking abilities, and social competence, which are essential for building relationships and navigating the world around them.
Moreover, early language proficiency has long-term benefits for academic success. Research shows that children who acquire language skills early perform better in school, have higher literacy rates, and demonstrate greater cognitive abilities. Additionally, early language learners are more likely to excel in later language learning endeavors, opening doors to opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Furthermore, early language exposure is particularly critical for children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Access to sign language from an early age provides these children with essential linguistic input, fostering language development and ensuring full participation in society.
In summary, emphasizing early language learning lays the foundation for cognitive development, social interaction, academic achievement, and linguistic proficiency, setting children on a path toward success and fulfillment in life.
Where can I find additional information about American Sign Language?
You can find additional information about American Sign Language from a variety of reputable sources. Here are some suggestions:
Online Resources:
Explore websites dedicated to ASL education and resources, such as the American Sign Language University (Lifeprint.com) or ASLdeafined.com. These platforms offer lessons, dictionaries, videos, and interactive tools for learning ASL.
Books and Publications:
Look for ASL textbooks, dictionaries, and instructional guides available in print or digital formats. Popular titles include “Signing Naturally” by Cheri Smith, Ella Mae Lentz, and Ken Mikos, and “The American Sign Language Phrase Book” by Lou Fant and Barbara Bernstein Fant.
Community Centers and Schools:
Check with local community centers, deaf organizations, or schools offering ASL classes or workshops. Many educational institutions provide American Sign Language courses as part of their language or cultural studies programs.
Deaf Culture Events:
Attend deaf community events, workshops, or conferences where American Sign Language is used as the primary mode of communication. These gatherings offer opportunities to immerse yourself in ASL, interact with native signers, and learn about deaf culture.
Online Forums and social media:
Engage with online communities and social media groups focused on American Sign Language learning and deaf culture. Platforms like Reddit’s r/asl community or Facebook groups provide spaces for asking questions, sharing resources, and connecting with fellow learners and signers.
