American Sign Language

American Sign Language

Introduction

Languages are one of the most essential features that facilitate the interactions of human beings. However, the term “Communication” encircles within its radius both the verbal and nonverbal aspects of how human beings interact. Therefore, languages and communications are not just limited to the speech or conversation facilitated by the exchange of words and sentences between two or more individuals. In fact, several other non-verbal gestures can also be regarded as very evident and affective methods or means of communication. The nonverbal gestures by individuals are experienced at several occasions for expressing their certain emotions. However, there are also individuals who do not have the ability to engage in conventional conversations. One category of such individuals is the deaf and also those who are unable to speak. Hence, in order to interact with others, the most common means of communication these individuals use is the Sign Language.

Discussion

Similar to the traditional verbal languages, the sign languages used in different geographical locations also differ from each other. The sign language used by the deaf communities for communication proposes in United States of America along with some of the regions in Canada is known as the American Sign Language or ASL.

Definition

ASL (American Sign Language) is basically a visual based language. With the help of the signs, the human brain processes this linguistic data through the eyes. In addition, the placement, shape, and the hand movement are essential features of any sign language including American Sign Language. In addition to these, body movements and facial expressions also play a vital part in conveying data and information (Jill & James, 2003).

Sign languages are not universal. Therefore, every individual country or region uses its own nonverbal or sign language. Hence, ASL has its own unique set of rules and codes of syntax and grammar. In addition, similar to other sign languages, the ASL is also regarded as a living language, which has been observed to change, and grow with the passage of time.

ASL is the predominantly used language in US and some parts of Canada. In addition, American Sign Language is accepted and acknowledged by many of the high schools, colleges, and even universities in these regions. This is done so that all the requirements and needs of the academic degrees and aspects across the United States of America of the deaf are affectively catered.

Origin

Originated in the era in 19th century, the American Sign Language was first used and explored in the ASD (American School for the Deaf) in Connecticut. The school also adapted the pedagogical methodologies introduced by the French Institute. In addition, the school also introduced the use of French Sign Language. Therefore, the patters of FSL are very prominently reflected in the ASL. In addition, the deaf students from several different regions, each using a unique pattern of Sign languages, were invited to the school. The interaction of the deaf students using different patterns of Sign Languages resulted in the development of the American Sign ...