I love that this big book lies open flat! It makes it so nice to study and imitate the color photos of a person making the signs. This is designed for someone with no previous knowledge of ASL and explains common mistakes to avoid. They stress the importance of understanding the parameters of ASL such as using classifiers, handshapes, orientation, location, movement and facial expressions at the same time as good grammar and sentence structure. You go on to learn the alphabet, numbers, essentials, days/times, family/friends, body/health, at home, shopping, school/work, food/drink, activities, social situations, nature, more verbs and descriptors – 800 signs in all. The man and woman in the photos are very expressive, which is super helpful. Hardcover with spiral inside binding. ~Sara
American Sign Language (ASL) is a vibrant, easy-to-learn language that is used by approximately half a million people each day. Current with the latest additions to ASL and filled with thousands of photographs featuring deaf actors, Learn American Sign Language is the most comprehensive guide of its kind.
With it, you will be able to:
* Learn more than 800 signs, including signs for school, the workplace, around the house, out and about, food and drink, nature, emotions, small talk, and more.
* Unlock the storytelling possibilities of ASL with classifiers, easy ways to modify signs that can turn "fishing" into "catching a big fish" and "walking" into "walking with a group."
* Find out how to make sentences with signs, use the proper facial expressions with your signs, and other vital tips.
The book's spiral binding allows it to lie flat, the perfect format for studying. The signs are organized by theme, so you can learn groups of signs related to a specific activity. An index at the back allows you to easily find specific terms.
With this guide, you'll be well on your way to becoming an effective ASL communicator and storyteller.
Recommended by my daughter's ASL teacher.
I've looked at many signing courses and this book is the most straight forward, no frills approach I've found. It is also a fraction of the cost of others.