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Sign Language Basics Textbook

A free, self-paced textbook in 7 chapters. Read a chapter, then drill it with the 216 companion flashcards using spaced repetition.

7 chapters · 216 cards · Updated

Chapters

  1. 1The Manual Alphabet and Fingerspelling

    The ASL manual alphabet is a foundational tool that allows signers to spell out words letter by letter using specific handshapes. It is especially useful for proper nouns, brand na...

  2. 2Greetings, Courtesy Signs, and Everyday Phrases

    Many of the most common ASL signs are polite phrases used in introductions and everyday encounters. "Hello" is signed by touching the index and middle fingers to the side of the fo...

  3. 3Family Members and People

    Family vocabulary in ASL often follows a clever pattern in which location on the face distinguishes the relationship. MOTHER and FATHER both use an open 5 handshape, but MOTHER tap...

  4. 4Emotions, States, and Physical Sensations

    ASL uses expressive facial grammar alongside handshapes to convey feelings and bodily states. HAPPY is signed by brushing a flat hand upward against the chest while wearing a broad...

  5. 5Actions, Verbs, and Daily Concepts

    Many common verbs in ASL depict the action they represent. EAT or FOOD brings the fingertips of a flat hand to the mouth repeatedly. DRINK forms a C handshape as if holding a cup a...

  6. 6Grammar, Facial Expression, and Question Forms

    ASL grammar differs significantly from English, and facial expression is essential rather than optional. Facial features function as grammatical markers: raised brows and a slight...

  7. 7Deaf Culture, Etiquette, and Identity

    Understanding Deaf culture is as important as learning the signs themselves. The capitalized "Deaf" refers to a cultural and linguistic community of people who share ASL and a rich...

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