Team Coleman 2010
Learn to Sign
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Sign languages are languages like French or Chinese, with their
own grammar and regional dialects. Our team uses American
Sign Language (ASL), which is the most common sign language
in the US and Canada. It was developed in the early 1800's by
Thomas Gallaudet and is based on French Sign Language and
the informal signs being used in the US at that time. As a result,
it's easy for ASL users to get around in France, but they won't
understand a word in England, where they use a totally different
system.
The best way to learn ASL is in person from a deaf friend or in a
class. But hey, not all of us have the time or resources! There
are a lot of great books and web sites that can take you a long
way - that's how Gabrielle got started!
Gabrielle recommends:
Web sites:
Books:
own grammar and regional dialects. Our team uses American
Sign Language (ASL), which is the most common sign language
in the US and Canada. It was developed in the early 1800's by
Thomas Gallaudet and is based on French Sign Language and
the informal signs being used in the US at that time. As a result,
it's easy for ASL users to get around in France, but they won't
understand a word in England, where they use a totally different
system.
The best way to learn ASL is in person from a deaf friend or in a
class. But hey, not all of us have the time or resources! There
are a lot of great books and web sites that can take you a long
way - that's how Gabrielle got started!
Gabrielle recommends:
Web sites:
- ASL University - Created by Dr. Bill Vicars of CSU,
Sacramento, this is probably the best source online with
lots, and lots of free content. - Signing Online - This site has some free content, and
some for a small cost (that includes certification.)
Gabrielle likes the videos as they're a little slower and
easier to understand.
Books:
- American Sign Language Dictionary, by Martin L.A.
Sternberg - There are concise and unabridged versions of
this dictionary.