Tag: Basics

Basics · parameters

Parameters

KindraLeave a comment
Parameters in ASL

There are five parameters generally accepted for sign. Different signs can have similar or some of the same parameters but at least one of other parameters are different, making the meaning of the sign change.

ASL THAT has a short video that summarizes these parameters which can be found here. Below are some descriptions.

First is Hand Shape. This is the shape your hand makes while doing the sign(s).

Second is Palm Orientation. This is the direction in which your palm faces while doing the sign. This can be up towards the sky, down towards the ground, left or right.

Third is Location. This is where in the signing area the sign takes place. For example, the sign for mother and father are the same but the location is different. Father takes place near the forehead and mother takes place near the chin.

Fourth is Movement. This is the direction in which your hand moves during a sign. An example of this would be father/mother vs. grand father/mother.

Fifth is Non-manual Markers, or facial expression. Facial expression is a large part of Sign Language. It sets the tone for what you are saying. An example would be, you wouldn’t make a disgusted face while talking about your favourite food.

The parameters can be broken down further (especially the non-manual markers) like in this TED talk: The Enchanting Music of Sign Language

Basics · Fingerspelling

The ASL Alphabet

Featured JessicaLeave a comment

Nail the basics first, detail the details later.

— Chris Anderson.

First things first: if you are learning ASL, a good place to start would be learning the alphabet. Some good resources include:

  • ASL THAT Video
    • Turn on captions if you wish to see the English letters at the same time. This video shows the letters signed with different camera angles.
  • Hand Shape Images
    • If you would like a background image or handout to help you as you learn, consider using one of the images using the above link.

Note that K and P; G and Q; and I and J have the same hand shapes – the first two pairs the difference is the palm orientation and for the third pair the J has movement (see the post on parameters).

To go from A > T > N > M, slide an additional finger over the thumb, this can be tight (more in the shape of a fist) or more loose and relaxed (where the fingers resting on the thumb stick out a bit).