Toll Free: (888) 816-8191 | TTY: (516) 937-3546 | Fax: (516) 938-1513
American Sign Language
Did You Know...
ASL, like any other language, has its own structure, syntax and rules of conjugation. ASL is not understood in all Deaf communities; signed languages vary by country or region.
In spoken language, the different sounds created by words and tones of voice are the most important devices used to communicate. Sign language is based on the idea that sight is the most useful tool a deaf person has to communicate and receive information. Thus, ASL uses hand shape, position, and movement; body movements; gestures; facial expressions; and other visual cues to form its words.
Some interesting recent studies suggest that infants can learn to sign before they learn to speak, and that ASL users develop faster visual processing than English speakers, suggesting that sign language enhances certain visual processing finctions in the brain.
If you are interested in studying American Sign Language, try a print dictionary or a dictionary on CD.
Be sure to check out the fascinating history of American Sign Language, or some great stories of Deaf communities in our recommended reading department.
In spoken language, the different sounds created by words and tones of voice are the most important devices used to communicate. Sign language is based on the idea that sight is the most useful tool a deaf person has to communicate and receive information. Thus, ASL uses hand shape, position, and movement; body movements; gestures; facial expressions; and other visual cues to form its words.
Some interesting recent studies suggest that infants can learn to sign before they learn to speak, and that ASL users develop faster visual processing than English speakers, suggesting that sign language enhances certain visual processing finctions in the brain.
If you are interested in studying American Sign Language, try a print dictionary or a dictionary on CD.
Be sure to check out the fascinating history of American Sign Language, or some great stories of Deaf communities in our recommended reading department.