Learning American Sign Language (ASL) is a wonderful way to communicate with the Deaf community and expand your linguistic horizons. If you want to understand how to express the concept of “taught” in ASL, this comprehensive guide will provide you with formal and informal variations, along with some helpful tips and examples. While there might be regional variations, we will focus on the commonly used signs. Let’s get started!
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Formal Ways to Say “Taught” in ASL
In formal ASL, you can use the sign for “teach” to convey the concept of “taught.” The sign for “teach” involves using both hands in a specific gesture. Here’s how you can sign “taught” formally:
Sign for “Teach”: Place both hands in front of you, palms facing down, with the fingers extended and pointing towards the person you are signing to. Starting with your dominant hand, make a tapping motion on the back of the non-dominant hand.
To express “taught” in a sentence using formal ASL, you can sign “TEACH” followed by the object of the teaching. For example:
Example 1: I TAUGHT math to my students. [sign “TEACH” then sign “MATH”]
Example 2: She TAUGHT me how to bake a cake. [sign “TEACH” then point towards yourself, followed by sign “BAKE CAKE”]
Informal Ways to Say “Taught” in ASL
In more informal settings or casual conversations, ASL users may incorporate an abbreviated gesture to convey the meaning of “taught.” Here’s how you can express “taught” informally in ASL:
Informal Gesture for “Taught”: Start with your dominant hand in the “T” handshape (all fingers extended), near your non-dominant palm. Move your dominant hand back and forth, brushing against your non-dominant palm.
With this informal gesture, you can easily add it to your conversation to convey the idea of “taught.” For instance:
Example 1: He TAUGHT me how to play guitar. [perform the informal gesture, then sign “PLAY GUITAR”]
Example 2: They TAUGHT the new employee about our company policies. [perform the informal gesture, then sign “NEW EMPLOYEE” and “COMPANY POLICIES”]
Regional Variations
While ASL serves as the primary sign language in the United States and most regions follow the signs mentioned above, it’s essential to note that there may be slight regional variations in certain areas or among individual signers. Various factors, such as dialects and cultural influences, might influence the use of local signs for “taught.”
If you’re learning ASL in a specific region or interacting with a specific Deaf community, it is beneficial to consult with local Deaf individuals or ASL teachers to understand any notable regional variations for “taught” in ASL.
Tips for Learning ASL
Learning a new language, especially a visual language like ASL, requires time and practice. Follow these tips to enhance your ASL learning experience:
- Immerse Yourself: Surround yourself with ASL resources (videos, communities, classes) to immerse yourself in the language.
- Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Set aside dedicated practice time every day to improve your signing skills.
- Interact with Deaf Individuals: If possible, engage with Deaf individuals to enhance your understanding of ASL and gain cultural insights.
- Use Technology: Utilize online resources, smartphone apps, and video platforms to access ASL tutorials, dictionaries, and practice sessions.
- Join ASL Classes: Enroll in formal ASL classes or find local Deaf organizations that offer ASL courses for structured learning.
- Attend ASL Events: Attend ASL events or Deaf social gatherings to meet fellow signers and practice your skills in a real-life setting.
Remember, be patient with yourself during your ASL learning journey. Mastering a new language takes time, but with dedication, practice, and support, you can achieve fluency in ASL.
Now that you have a better understanding of how to express “taught” in ASL, incorporate these signs into your communication with the Deaf community. Remember to continue expanding your ASL vocabulary and embrace the rich culture that accompanies this beautiful language.
