Welcome to our comprehensive guide on expressing age in American Sign Language (ASL). In this guide, we will cover both the formal and informal ways of conveying the phrase “I am [years old].” ASL is a beautiful and expressive language that uses a combination of hand shapes, facial expressions, and body movements. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
Formal ASL tends to follow a standard structure, and when expressing age, certain grammatical rules are generally observed. To say “I am [years old]” formally in ASL, follow these steps:
- Start by signing “I” –Point your index finger towards yourself.
- Next, present the verb “AM” –Place your hand near your chest, then move it forward with your palm facing downward.
- Finally, show the number of years by using your fingers –Extend the appropriate number of fingers to represent your age.
For example, if you are 5 years old, follow these steps:
“I” + “AM” + 5 fingers extended
Remember to maintain a neutral facial expression while expressing your age formally. This conveys the standard way of communicating age in ASL.
Informal Expressions
Informal ASL allows for more flexibility and creativity when expressing age. It provides an opportunity to incorporate your personality and individual style. Here’s how you can express “I am [years old]” informally in ASL:
- Begin with the sign for “I” –Use a casual finger pointing towards yourself, or you can even sign your name initial.
- Then, sign “AM” –Move your hand forward from your chest, similar to the formal expression.
- Finally, indicate your age using gestures that align with your personality. Some common informal ways are:
1. Buster (Explosion) Handshape
Make a “B” handshape with your dominant hand, similar to forming a fist with your thumb extended. Place it near your cheek, and then open it outward, simulating an explosion. Pair this with the formal structure mentioned above to complete the expression.
2. Tapping Shoulder
Start by pointing to yourself, then use your non-dominant hand to softly tap your shoulder a specific number of times to represent your age. Combine this with the signs for “I” and “AM” as well.
3. Fingerspelling
If you prefer a straightforward approach, you can fingerspell your age after signing “I AM.” Remember to use the appropriate handshape for each letter as you spell out the numbers that represent your age.
Regional Variations
ASL has evolved differently in various regions, leading to some variations in signs. However, when expressing age, the formal and informal methods described above are generally understood across the ASL community. It’s always beneficial to learn regional variations if you interact with individuals from specific areas, as they may have unique signs or gestures for numbers.
Useful Tips for ASL
- Establish good eye contact while signing, as it enhances communication in ASL.
- Practice fingerspelling regularly to improve your speed and accuracy.
- Maintain a relaxed posture and use appropriate facial expressions to convey the intended meaning effectively.
- Take advantage of online resources, videos, and tutorials to further enhance your ASL skills.
We hope this guide has been helpful in teaching you how to express your age in ASL. Remember to adapt your signing style to fit your personality while still adhering to the core rules of the language. Enjoy the process of learning and communicating in ASL, a language rich in culture and expression!
