AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE ALPHABET
The American Sign Language (ASL) alphabet is a one-handed system of finger signs that represents each letter of the English alphabet. It is used for fingerspelling to spell words that have no specific ASL sign, such as names, technical terms, or new words. Students rely on fingerspelling when they don't know the sign for something.
Grammatically, fingerspelling is used for signing proper nouns (people's names, brand names, book and movie titles, and city and state names). Even though students can use fingerspelling for words they don't know, it is recommended to try using signs to describe the word or use gestures. If it is necessary, you can fingerspell it though.
Learning the manual alphabet is fun! But remember, ASL is a language with its own vocabulary, grammar, and syntax, and you can't sign if you only know the alphabet! Complete an ASL Course, take a class, or sign up for private lessons where you can learn how to sign clearly and accurately.
The first step in your journey to learning ASL is to familiarize yourself with the ASL alphabet. Below we have provided you some free resources so you can start fingerspelling today!
Free Resources and Downloads to
Practice the ASL Alphabet
The American Sign Language is very important with learning ASL, so be sure to download our printable sign language resources to help you learn and practice.
Download the Fingerspelling Challenge to discover just how easy and fun it is to practice fingerspelling anywhere, anytime!
Most importantly, you should practice fingerspelling your name until it is nice and fluid on your fingers.
DOWNLOAD OUR FINGERSPELLING CHALLENGE
Sign Language is not universal! There are several different signed languages around the world, and different fingerspelled alphabets. Check out some of the sign language alphabets from around the world here.
