Learning American Sign Language (ASL) is an enriching experience that allows you to communicate effectively with the Deaf community. Each month has its unique sign in ASL, including November. In this guide, you will learn how to say “November” in ASL. We will explore both formal and informal ways, as well as provide tips, examples, and variations. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Way to Sign November
When signing the word “November” in a more formal context or setting, you would use a specific sign. Here’s how:
Sign: Start with your non-dominant hand held out, palm up and fingers slightly apart. With your dominant hand, form the letter “N” by extending your thumb and index finger, and touch the index finger to the base of your non-dominant hand’s fingers. Then, twist your wrist slightly back and forth in a small rotation.
Remember to maintain a gentle and fluid motion while signing, keeping your movements clear and expressive. Practice with a mirror or with someone familiar with ASL to fine-tune your signing skills.
Informal Variation of November
ASL is a dynamic language, and there are often informal variations for signs, including the sign for “November.” Though not commonly used in formal settings, the informal variation provides you with more flexibility to communicate with friends and in casual conversations. Here’s a common informal way to sign “November”:
Sign: Hold up your non-dominant hand, palm facing up. With your dominant hand, use your index finger to trace the shape of a “9” on your non-dominant hand’s palm. Then, shake your hand slightly left and right.
This informal variation of signing “November” is often used among friends and peers. It maintains the essence of the month’s sign while adapting it for a more relaxed setting.
Tips for Signing November in ASL
Here are some tips to enhance your ASL signing skills when expressing the word “November”:
- Facial Expressions: Remember to incorporate appropriate facial expressions while signing. They convey an important part of the message and add emotional depth.
- Non-Manual Markers: Utilize non-manual markers such as head nods, tilts, and eyebrow raises to provide context, emphasize certain aspects, or ask questions while signing.
- Consistency: Be consistent in your movements and handshapes. Aim for smooth transitions between signs and maintain a steady pace to improve clarity.
- Practice Regularly: Regular practice is crucial for mastering ASL signs. Dedicate time to practicing the signs for each month, including “November,” until they become second nature.
- Learn from Native Signers: Engage with and learn from members of the Deaf community or fluent ASL signers. Their expertise and feedback will help you refine your signing skills and understand regional variations, if applicable.
Examples of Use
To provide a better understanding of how to use the sign for “November” in context, here are some examples:
Example 1:
Person A: When will your birthday be?
Person B: My birthday is on the 9th of November.
Person A: That’s great! I’ll make sure to remember.
Example 2:
Person A: Have you finished planning the event?
Person B: Not yet. We’re considering mid-November for the date; it seems convenient for most people.
Person A: Sounds like a good plan. Let me know if you need any assistance.
These examples showcase how the sign for “November” can be used naturally in conversations. Remember to adapt your signing to suit the specific context and individuals involved.
Regional Variations
ASL may have slight regional variations, but the signs for months, like “November,” are generally consistent across the United States. However, if you encounter different signing variations within your local Deaf community, it’s essential to respect and learn from their specific linguistic usage.
Learning ASL connects you to a diverse and vibrant community. Embrace the variations you encounter, as they highlight the beautiful diversity within the Deaf culture.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve learned how to say “November” in ASL. Remember to use the formal sign when in a more formal setting and the informal variation among friends and in casual conversations. Regular practice, maintaining consistency, and learning from native signers will help you master signing “November” confidently.
By developing your ASL vocabulary, you open the door to effective communication and deeper connections with the Deaf community. Enjoy the journey as you continue to expand your knowledge of ASL!
