Greetings! Welcome to this guide on how to express the months in American Sign Language (ASL). Whether you want to communicate about specific dates, discuss your favorite time of year, or learn a new way to express the months, we have got you covered. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore both formal and informal approaches to signing the months in ASL. While regional variations do exist, we will primarily focus on the commonly used signs. So, let’s dive in and learn how to communicate the months effectively in ASL!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Sign the Months
Formal signing is typically used in professional, educational, or official settings. It adheres more strictly to grammatical rules and proper signing etiquette. To sign the months formally in ASL, follow these tips:
1. Use Initialized Signs
In formal settings, many ASL users prefer to use initialized signs for the months. These signs are formed by taking the first letter of the English month and then performing the corresponding ASL sign for that letter.
Example: To sign “January” formally, you would take the handshape for the letter “J” and move it in a small circular motion near your chin. Similarly, you can sign “February” by taking the handshape for “F” and tapping it against your forehead.
2. Incorporate Correct Facial Expressions
Using the appropriate facial expressions is crucial in formal signing. Maintain a neutral facial expression while signing the months, avoiding unnecessary exaggeration or personal emotions.
Informal Ways to Sign the Months
Informal signing is commonly used among friends, family, and in casual conversations. While it is less strict in adhering to grammatical rules, it allows for more creativity and personal expression. To sign the months informally in ASL, consider these tips:
1. Use Natural Gestures
In informal settings, ASL users tend to rely more on natural gestures to depict the months. These gestures may be inspired by seasonal activities, common characteristics associated with each month, or shared cultural references.
Example: Informally signing “July” might involve mimicking the action of watching fireworks blossoming in the night sky, while “December” can be signed by flexing your fingers to represent snowflakes falling.
2. Incorporate Emotion and Creativity
Informal signing allows for the inclusion of personal emotions and creativity. Feel free to use a more animated facial expression and body language while conveying the months to add depth and individuality to your signing.
Regional Variations
ASL exhibits regional variations, which means that signs for the months may vary across different areas. However, the following signs are widely understood and used across various regions:
- January: Initialized “J” moved in a small circular motion near the chin
- February: Initialized “F” tapped against the forehead
- March: Palm-down “M” handshape moves away from the body
- April: Pinch the thumb and index finger together
- May: Open hand with palm facing out moves up the side of the head
- June: Index finger extended, making a small circular motion downward
- July: Depict watching fireworks blossoming in the night sky
- August: “A” handshape taps against the chest
- September: “S” handshape moves downward along the back of the other hand
- October: Pointer and middle finger combined to form an “O” shape, moving in a circle
- November: “N” handshape taps in front of the chest
- December: Flex fingers to represent falling snowflakes
Remember, these are just commonly used signs, but you may encounter variations depending on the region or personal preference.
Now that you are equipped with both formal and informal signing techniques for the months in ASL, embrace the opportunity to practice and incorporate your own unique style. Soon enough, you will be able to confidently express the months in ASL, adapting to a variety of communicative contexts. Happy signing!
