top of page
Search

What Are the 5 Basics of Sign Language?

A woman standing next to the title of the article doing sign language

American Sign Language (ASL) is a rich, visual language used primarily by the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community in the United States and parts of Canada. Understanding its foundational elements is key to effective communication. The five basic parameters of ASL handshape, position, movement, palm orientation, and non-manual signals, form the building blocks of every sign.


This guide explores these essentials, offering practical insights for beginners, supported by authoritative resources from leading institutions like Gallaudet University and the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD).


The Five Basic Parameters of American Sign Language

ASL signs are constructed using five core components, which ensure clarity and meaning. Mastering these is essential for beginners to form signs accurately and communicate effectively.


Below, we break down each parameter with examples and tips.


1. Handshape

The shape of your hand is the foundation of each sign. ASL uses specific hand configurations, such as the "A" hand (fist with thumb up) or the "open 5" (spread fingers). For instance, the sign for "mother" uses an "A" handshape near the chin, while "father" uses the same shape near the forehead. The American Sign Language Lexicon Video Dataset (ASLLVD) from Boston University notes over 40 distinct handshapes in ASL, emphasizing their role in distinguishing signs


Tip: Practice common handshapes using flashcards, like those offered by Stanford EdTech Lab, to build muscle memory.


2. Position (Location)

Where you place your hand relative to your body defines the sign’s location. Common positions include near the face, chest, or neutral space in front of the body. For example, the sign for "home" is made near the cheek, while "book" is signed in front of the chest. According to Gallaudet University’s ASL Connect, consistent positioning ensures signs are recognizable.


Tip: Start with signs in neutral space, like "dog" or "cat," to get comfortable before tackling face-level signs.


3. Movement

The way your hand moves, whether in a straight line, arc, or repeated motion, adds meaning. For example, the sign for "run" involves a forward motion with bent fingers, while "stay" is static. The NIDCD highlights that movement patterns are critical for verb signs, which often indicate action or direction


Tip: Practice movement by mimicking video tutorials from ASL Connect to ensure smooth, natural motions.


4. Palm Orientation

The direction your palm faces (up, down, inward, or outward) can change a sign’s meaning. For instance, the sign for "mother" uses a palm facing inward, while flipping it outward alters the sign. The University of Vermont’s CARES Team notes that orientation errors are common among beginners but can be corrected with practice


Tip: Pay attention to palm direction in mirror exercises to catch and correct mistakes early.


5. Non-Manual Signals (NMS)

Non-manual signals, such as facial expressions, head tilts, or body shifts, are integral to ASL grammar. For example, raised eyebrows indicate a yes/no question, while furrowed brows signal a "wh" question (e.g., who, what). South Mountain Community College emphasizes that NMS convey tone and context, making them as crucial as hand movements.


Tip: Record yourself signing to check facial expressions, as they’re often overlooked by beginners.


Why These Parameters Matter

These five components work together to create distinct signs and convey meaning accurately. Misaligning any parameter, like using the wrong handshape or position, can lead to confusion, similar to mispronouncing a word in spoken language.


For example, the signs for "mother" and "father" differ only in position, highlighting the precision required. As noted in a study from Academia edu, mastering these basics is critical for effective communication in Deaf education settings.


Getting Started with ASL: Practical Tips


  • Learn Core Vocabulary: Start with everyday signs like "hello," "thank you," or "please," available in Gallaudet’s 1,000 Signs of Life resource.

  • Use Visual Resources: Free video lessons from ASL Connect or Sign Language 101 offer guided practice.

  • Practice Regularly: Dedicate 10–15 minutes daily to signing, using tools like RIT’s ASL Video Dictionary to check accuracy.

  • Engage with Deaf Culture: Understanding cultural nuances, as explained by Prince George’s Community College, enhances respectful communication


Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

  • Ignoring NMS: Omitting facial expressions can make signs unclear or grammatically incorrect.

  • Rushing Movements: Fast or sloppy motions reduce clarity, practice slow, deliberate signs.

  • Generic Handshapes: Using incorrect handshapes alters meaning, so double-check with resources like ASLLVD.

  • Lack of Practice: Inconsistent practice hinders retention, so set a routine.


Sample Practice Exercise

Try signing the phrase “What is your name?”:


  1. What: Use the "open B" handshape, palm outward, near the chin, with furrowed brows.

  2. Is: Use the "I" handshape, palm inward, in neutral space.

  3. Your: Use the "flat hand" shape, palm up, pointing toward the person.

  4. Name: Use two "H" handshapes near the chin, palms facing each other, with raised eyebrows.


Check your form using Gallaudet’s free video lessons


Final Thoughts and Resources


Mastering the five basics of ASL, handshape, position, movement, palm orientation, and non-manual signals, sets a strong foundation for fluent signing. Regular practice and engagement with Deaf culture will enhance your skills and confidence.


For further learning, explore these authoritative resources:


By focusing on these fundamentals, you’ll build a solid base for effective ASL communication, opening doors to meaningful connections within the Deaf community.

 
 
 

Comments

Rated 0 out of 5 stars.
No ratings yet
Add a rating
bottom of page