ASL, or American Sign Language, is a visual language used by many deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in North America. Just like spoken languages, ASL has its own signs and gestures for different words and concepts. In this guide, we will explore how to say “September” in ASL, focusing on both formal and informal signs. Let’s dive in and discover the beautiful language of ASL!
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Formal Sign for September
When signing “September” formally in ASL, you would typically follow these steps:
- Start with your non-dominant hand (left hand for right-handed individuals) held up, palm facing outward, and fingers slightly apart.
- With your dominant hand (right hand for right-handed individuals), make an “S” shape by touching your thumb to your pinky finger while keeping your other three fingers extended.
- Tap the back of your non-dominant hand gently with the “S” handshape. This represents the beginning of the sign.
- Next, bring your dominant hand, still in the “S” shape, up to the middle of your forehead, where your hairline starts. Touch your forehead with the thumb side of the “S” shape.
- Finally, move your hand in a downward arcing motion, stopping shortly after passing your nose, to complete the sign for “September.”
Remember to keep your facial expressions neutral while signing formally, expressing the sign with clear, deliberate movements. It’s essential to maintain eye contact with the person you are signing with, as eye contact is a crucial aspect of ASL communication.
Informal Variation for September
While the formal sign for “September” is commonly used, informal variations may exist depending on regional differences or personal preferences. One informal variation involves combining the signs for “nine” and “month” in ASL:
- Begin by signing “nine.” Extend your non-dominant hand, palm facing your body, with all fingers extended and slightly spread apart.
- With your dominant hand, start with a closed fist and extend your thumb and pinky finger, resembling the “I Love You” sign. Place the tips of your thumb and pinky finger on your torso near your chest.
- Now, transition seamlessly from “nine” to the sign for “month.” Bring your dominant hand up to your lips and tap your index finger gently on your lips.
Remember, variations can exist among different signing communities and regions. When learning ASL, it’s important to keep an open mind and adapt to the signing style of the person you are communicating with.
Tips for Practicing ASL Signs
Learning ASL, like any new language, requires practice and dedication. Here are some tips to help you improve your ASL signing skills:
- Take ASL classes: Enroll in a local community college or search for online ASL courses to learn from qualified instructors who can guide your learning journey.
- Practice with native signers: Seek opportunities to interact with deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals who use ASL as their primary language. Simply observing and conversing with them can greatly enhance your signing abilities.
- Use video resources: Utilize online videos and tutorials that provide visual demonstrations of signs. Practice mimicking the signs you see and pay attention to facial expressions and body movements.
- Join ASL communities: Engage in ASL communities (online or in-person) to connect with other signers, share experiences, and learn from one another. These communities often organize sign language events and gatherings.
- Practice fingerspelling: Fingerspelling is a vital part of ASL. Dedicate time to practice accurately forming each letter of the alphabet using your dominant hand. Gradually increase your speed as you gain more familiarity.
“Remember, learning ASL goes beyond mastering signs. It’s about embracing deaf culture, fostering inclusivity, and building stronger connections with the Deaf community.”
Conclusion
Learning ASL is an exciting journey that allows you to communicate with the rich and diverse Deaf community. In this guide, we explored the formal and informal signs for “September” in ASL. Remember to practice regularly, seek opportunities to interact with native signers, and immerse yourself in the beauty of ASL. By doing so, you’ll not only expand your language skills but also deepen your understanding of Deaf culture and create meaningful connections.
