American Sign Language Unit 1 Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards based on ASL Unit 1 notes covering key principles, numbering rules, greetings, Deaf culture norms, non-manual signals, and finger spelling.

Deixis

The act of using the index finger to point at a person, object, or empty space in reference, which is a standard feature of signed language and not considered impolite.

ASL Numbers $1\text{--}5$ Orientation

The handshape for numbers $1\text{--}5$ must face towards the signer, except when signing addresses, telephone numbers, or a series of numbers in a group.

ASL Numbers $11$ and $12$ Formation

Formed by flicking the necessary fingers up once from the S handshape.

ASL Numbers $13$, $14$, and $15$ Formation

Formed by opening and closing the handshapes twice. The thumb is not extended for number $14$, unlike numbers $13$ and $15$.

ASL Numbers $16\text{--}19$ Formation

Formed by combining the number $10$ handshape held inward with $6$, $7$, $8$, or $9$ while moving the wrist outward.

ASL Number $20$ Formation

Formed by tapping the index finger and thumb together twice.

Question Marker (ASL)

A non-manual signal where the signer raises their eyebrows and keeps them raised until the question is completed.

Deaf Culture: Eye Contact

In Deaf culture, breaking eye contact during a conversation is considered rude.

Deaf Culture: Getting Attention

Acceptable methods to get someone's attention in Deaf culture include using a hand wave or a shoulder tap.

Deaf Culture: Environment Rule

Signers should get into the habit of signing whenever they know a Deaf person is present in the room.

Deaf Culture: Farewells

Common farewells include "Good-bye" and "Take care" (which is more informal); hugging is also a common practice in Deaf culture.

ASL Linguistic Identity

ASL is an independent language with its own distinct grammar, structure, and linguistic features, rather than English expressed through signs.

The Word "Get" in ASL

There is no single, universally applicable sign for "get" in ASL; the sign used depends on the specific contextual meaning (e.g., "I got home" is signed as "I arrive home").

ASL Adverbs

In ASL, adverbs are created and expressed using non-manual signals (NMS) made with the eyes and eyebrows.

ASL Adjectives

In ASL, adjectives are created and expressed using non-manual signals (NMS) made with the mouth, tongue, and lips.

Non-Manual Signals (NMS)

Facial expressions and body movements used in ASL to convey grammatical information and tone of voice, distinguishing ASL from spoken English.

Signing Double Letters (A, D, E, F, M, N, O, P, S)

When occurring at the beginning or middle of a word, these letters are signed by quickly repeating the movement.

Signing Double Letters (B, C, G, K, L, P, R, W)

When occurring at the beginning or middle of a word, these letters are signed as if placing the repeated letter over top of the original.

Signing Double Letters at the End of a Word

Double letters occurring at the end of a word are signed by slightly sliding the hand to the right.

Finger Spelling

A manual technique used to sign names in ASL, requiring a brief pause when spelling a full name or signing "last" for a last name introduction.