Post 4

Though the origin of sign language and communication among the deaf community is unclear and anecdotal, today, American Sign Language is the fourth most taught language in the United States (http://vq.vassar.edu/issues/2003/02/features/american-sign-language.html).

One of the first things people learn to do when they are learning sign language is count to 10.  Just as when one writes, people have a dominant hand they sign with.  When are finger spelling and one handed signs, people will choose one hand to be the dominant hand.  The hand used does not change the sign meaning.

After choosing or identifying a dominant hand, use that hand to complete the actions.  All the numbers for one through ten are able to be done with one hand.  The first five counts are similar to how young children count on their hand.  When you are signing these numbers, the back of your hand should be facing the person you are signing.

For number one, you point your index finger up and curl your other fingers in a fist as indicated in the picture below.

For number two, you add your middle finger to the index finger while the other fingers remain in a fist.  Refer to the picture below for an example.

Number three is slightly different from what one might be inclined to do.  Rather than raising your ring finger, you should extend your thumb with your index and middle fingers as seen below.  This helps to show differentiation between "W" and "3."

Putting your thumb back down into your palm and raising your four fingers, you have signed the number four.  See the picture below for reference.

To change from the number four to the number five, simply unbend your thumb so all five digits are spread apart as pictured below.

The next four numbers are done with the signer's palm facing toward the listener. 

Number six is signed by placing the index, middle and ring fingers extended upward and bringing the pinky to touch the thumb touching in the middle.  See the picture below for reference.

The number seven is similar to signing the number six.  However, this time, you extend your pinky, middle and index fingers while the ring finger touches the thumb in the middle.

For the number eight, release your ring finger and touch your middle finger to your thumb while the other fingers are extended.

To move to the number nine, bring your index finger to touch your thumb and extend the other fingers as pictured.

Finally, the number ten requires some movement.  You will put your hand in a fist and extend your thumb as though you are giving a thumbs up.  Then, move your hand in this sign lightly shaking it in toward the other hand.  See the two pictures below for approximate movement.

This is only a very early lesson when learning American Sign Language.  Just as any other language, one must discover some of the nuances of dialect based on location.  Also, sentences are not constructed as one might speak them in English.  Although this can be a difficult task, learning American Sign Language is one way to connect with those who are deaf or hard of hearing.  Further, the beauty of movement is art in itself.