When communicating in American Sign Language (ASL), it’s important to be able to express your current level of proficiency. If you want to convey that you are still learning, there are several ways you can do so. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to convey the concept of “still learning” in ASL. We will also provide tips, examples, and highlight any regional variations when necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Still Learning” in ASL
When you want to express that you are still learning in a formal setting, there are phrases you can use that are polite and appropriate in professional settings. Here are a few examples:
1. STILL LEARN
The phrase “still learn” is a concise and straightforward way to express that you are currently in the process of learning. It can convey humility and dedication to continuous growth. To sign “still learn” in ASL:
- Extend your non-dominant hand palm-up, parallel to the ground.
- With your dominant hand, form an open palm facing downward and rest it gently on your non-dominant hand.
- Slowly move your dominant hand forward while maintaining the contact with your non-dominant hand.
Remember to maintain a warm facial expression and use appropriate body language to convey your intent effectively.
2. CONTINUE LEARN
“Continue learn” is another formal way to express that you are still in the process of learning. It emphasizes the ongoing nature of your educational journey. To sign “continue learn” in ASL:
- Hold your non-dominant hand outstretched, palm-up, and parallel to the ground.
- With your dominant hand, form a flat handshape and place it on top of your non-dominant hand.
- Maintaining contact, move your dominant hand forward slightly, as if continuing along a path.
Ensure your facial expressions and body language reflect your respectful attitude towards learning.
Informal Ways to Say “Still Learning” in ASL
In more casual or interpersonal situations, you might want to use less formal phrases to express that you are still learning. Here are a couple of examples:
1. NOT YET THERE
The phrase “not yet there” helps convey a sense of humility and the acknowledgment that you are still working towards your goals. To sign “not yet there” in ASL:
- Extend your non-dominant hand palm-up, parallel to the ground.
- With your dominant hand, form an open palm facing downward and hold it above your non-dominant hand.
- Slowly move your dominant hand forward and downward, indicating that you haven’t reached your destination yet.
Remember to maintain an inviting and friendly demeanor to show your eagerness to improve.
2. STILL WORK PROGRESS
“Still work progress” is a colloquial way to express that you are still in the process of learning. It implies that you are putting effort into your learning journey. To sign “still work progress” in ASL:
- Sign “still” by using your non-dominant hand held out in front of you, palm-up, and slightly tilted towards your dominant side.
- With your dominant hand, form a flat handshape and perform an upward motion along the palm of your non-dominant hand.
- For “work,” make a fist with your dominant hand, thumb up and index finger extended, and tap it a few times on your non-dominant palm.
- Finish by signing “progress” with your non-dominant hand remaining in position with the palm-up and slightly tilted, and your dominant hand forming a flat handshape with the thumb pointing forward while moving it forward a few times.
Always remember to maintain a friendly demeanor and use appropriate facial expressions to convey your enthusiasm for learning.
TIP: When using ASL to express that you are still learning, it’s crucial to show respect, humility, and dedication. Your facial expressions, body language, and overall demeanor play a significant role in conveying your message effectively.
Regional Variations
ASL has regional variations, much like spoken languages. However, for the phrase “still learning,” the aforementioned signs can be understood and interpreted by ASL users across different regions. Remember to use the general ASL signs unless you are aware of specific regional variations.
Conclusion
Being able to express that you are still learning is an essential concept in ASL. By using the formal phrases “still learn” and “continue learn,” as well as the more informal expressions “not yet there” and “still work progress,” you can effectively communicate your current learning status in various settings. Remember to always accompany your signs with appropriate facial expressions, body language, and a warm tone to convey your genuine enthusiasm for learning ASL.
