ASL for Beginners - Where to Start?

Learning ASL may seem hard, but it's just like learning any other spoken language. You have to start from the beginning and build a solid foundation if you want to reach fluency.

However, learning sign language involves some additional steps. This includes hand movements, facial expressions, and grammar.

To a beginner, the process of learning ASL sounds overwhelming. But like any language, with practice and dedication, ASL becomes easier over time.

If you're wondering what learning ASL for beginners entails, keep reading. This blog post will go through the steps you need to cover if you're completely new to American Sign Language.

Mastering the Basics 

Like with spoken languages, learning ASL means you have to start from the beginning. This means that before you start signing, you have to master:

1. The ASL alphabet
2. ASL parameters 
3. Basic vocabulary
4. Basic ASL phrases

Learning ASL takes time, no matter how good you are at picking up new languages. But if you take enough time to learn the basics of ASL, it will be much easier for you to make progress. 

ASL Alphabet

The alphabet is a fundamental part of American Sign Language.

ASL uses a one-hand fingerspelling system, which means you only need one hand to sign each letter of the alphabet. 

Learning the alphabet is also useful when you don't know the right sign for a word. You can also use fingerspelling when spelling your name. 

The best way to learn (and remember) the alphabet is by practicing every day. After some time, signing the letters will come naturally.

You can learn the alphabet with just a few lessons using the ASL Bloom app.

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You can also use flashcards when you want to quickly check the sign for a letter.

ASL Parameters 

Just like the ASL alphabet, you need to understand the ASL parameters. They're the fundamental building blocks that define how signs are produced.

There are five ASL parameters:

1. Handshape
2. Palm orientation
3. Location
4. Movement
5. Non-manual markers 

The first one refers to the specific shape or configuration of the hand(s) used to form a sign. 

The handshape for the letter "A" (closed fist with the thumb extended) is different from the handshape for "B" (an open palm with fingers extended and close together).

Palm orientation refers to the direction your palm faces while signing. If you don't face your palm the right way when signing something, you might confuse your interlocutor. 

The location and movement of your hand can alter the meaning of the sign. 

Non-manual markers refer to facial expressions and body movements. They accompany signs and add meaning or emotion. 

For example, raised eyebrows indicate a question. Furrowed brows can convey confusion or emphasis.

Basic Vocabulary

When you master the alphabet and parameters, you can move on to learning basic vocabulary. 

This can include:

• Greetings
• Personal pronouns
• Common question words
• Days of the week
• Colors
• Everyday phrases
• Feelings
• Numbers 1-10 

These basic ASL signs will help you start simple conversations and express common needs.

Just like with the alphabet, you need to practice regularly to remember all these signs. 

Key ASL Phrases

Basic conversational sign language means mastering common ASL phrases.

Some useful ASL phrases include:

• Hello, my name is… /What is your name?
• How are you?/I'm fine. 
• It's nice to meet you.
• Thank you.
• You're welcome.
• Excuse me.
• I don't understand./ I don't know.
• Where is the bathroom?
• Do you need help?/ I can't help you.
• Good morning/ Good evening/ Good night.
• Goodbye/ See you later.

Learning basic ASL phrases is slightly more difficult than basic vocabulary, but it's very important in your learning process. 

ASL courses 

Now that you know what you have to cover as an ASL beginner, let's talk about some of the ways you can learn ASL.

Learning ASL by yourself is hard, which is why many learners join an ASL course. 

Enrolling in an ASL course as a beginner is a great idea, whether it's online or in-person. ASL courses provide structured learning.

You will also be able to work with experienced instructors. ASL teachers can guide you through the basics and ensure proper technique. 

You'll gain hands-on practice with peers. Thus, you will be able to improve your skills faster through real-time feedback. 

Learning in a course also fosters a better understanding of ASL culture and context. This is essential for truly mastering the sign language. 

A supportive, interactive environment also offers opportunities to practice. It also helps you stay motivated and consistent in your learning. 

Online Resources

There are various online resources that can help you master ASL faster, including:

1. Online ASL courses
2. YouTube channels and tutorials
3. ASL apps
4. Fingerspelling practice websites
5. ASL dictionaries
6. Online ASL communities and forums

If you're looking for free sign language videos for beginners, you can find them on YouTube. There are various YouTube channels to choose from, each covering different topics. 

A sign language learning app is a great way to start. While many language learning apps are available, not all of them offer ASL.

If you want a fun, free ASL learning app that's easy to use, install ASL Bloom. This app is designed for learning ASL for beginners. 

You can also visit fingerspelling practice websites. They help build proficiency in the ASL alphabet and improve speed in fingerspelling.

ASL dictionaries are available for free use as well. They help you learn individual signs for vocabulary. They also sometimes include video demonstrations.

Finally, you can turn to online ASL communities and forums. 

You can engage with other learners and native signers to practice conversation. ASL communities also help you gain real-world experience.

Practice and Immersion

While there are many ways to learn ASL for beginners, the most important factor is practice. 

If you want to learn ASL, you have to practice signing every day. 

Note that learning any language is a gradual process that requires persistence. The same goes for learning ASL.

If you stay consistent, even when progress seems slow, you will be able to become a proficient ASL signer. 

A good tip is to set clear, achievable goals. For example, you can practice ASL every day for 15 minutes. You can also learn five new signs every day. 

Another important factor is immersion.

Being able to interact with native signers will help you improve your signing skills. To do this, you can find local deaf events and meetups. 

Real-life experience is often the best form of learning. 

Learn American Sign Language for Beginners with ASL Bloom

If you're an ASL beginner, try learning American Sign Language with ASL Bloom. 

ASL Bloom lets you learn ASL for free. All you need to do is download the app on your iPhone or Android and sign up for an account. 

You start from the beginning. The first few lessons are devoted to a few everyday phrases, like "It's nice to meet you" and "What's your name?"

After that, you will learn the alphabet. With each lesson you take, you will gain a point that grows your streak. You can get a point even if you repeat a previous lesson. 

ASL Bloom offers over 20 in-depth modules, which include 120 lessons and more than 1300 signs and sentences.

ASL Bloom's fun, interactive lessons also include quizzes, flashcards, and video demonstrations. 

We have all you need to start learning ASL for beginners. Download ASL Bloom today to start learning. 

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