Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say the months in American Sign Language (ASL). Whether you’re interested in learning the months for personal or professional reasons, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, you’ll find formal and informal ways to express the months in ASL, along with useful tips and examples. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
The Formal Way
When it comes to expressing the months in a formal setting, ASL follows a specific structure based on signs for each month. Here is a list of the formal signs for each month:
- January: Point your index finger upward while circling it in the air.
- February: Make an “F” handshape with both hands and tap your chest twice.
- March: Extend your middle finger while moving it side to side in front of your chest.
- April: Form an “A” handshape with your dominant hand, touch it near your shoulder, and flick forward.
- May: Make a closed fist with your dominant hand. With your thumb extended, touch it to your chin and then rotate your hand forward.
- June: Encircle your thumb and index finger with your other fingers extended, forming the letter “J,” and tap it against your temple.
- July: Extend your index finger and bring it down sharply onto your open palm.
- August: Place the “A” handshape on top of your shoulder and shake it back and forth.
- September: Cross your arms in front of your chest and extend your index fingers forward, then rotate them to point backward.
- October: Form an “O” handshape with your non-dominant hand and touch your index finger of the dominant hand near your palm.
- November: Touch your index finger near your temple, then move it straight forward with a circling motion.
- December: Make a thumbs-up gesture with your non-dominant hand, then place your dominant hand, with the “S” handshape, on top of it.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Take your time to learn and memorize these signs. Observation and repetition are key to gaining proficiency in ASL.
The Informal Way
While the formal signs are widely recognized and used, ASL also incorporates variations and regional influences that have led to informal ways of signing the months. These informal signs often reflect the local culture and may not be as universal. Here are a few examples of informal signs for some months:
- April: Wiggle all your fingers in front of your chest, resembling the movement of rain.
- May: Place your open palm near your mouth and move it forward, mimicking the blooming of flowers.
- July: Extend your index finger and swing it like a sparkler in the night sky.
- December: Hold out your non-dominant hand like a flat surface, then use the index finger of your dominant hand to trace a pattern like snowflakes falling.
It’s important to note that these informal signs may not be universally understood, so it’s best to rely on the formal signs when communicating with a wider ASL community. However, if you’re in a specific region where these informal signs are commonly used, they can be a fun addition to your ASL vocabulary.
Tips for Learning and Practicing
Learning any new language, including sign language, requires time and dedication. Here are some tips to help you learn and practice the months in ASL:
- Regular Practice: Set aside dedicated practice time each day to reinforce your learning. Consistency is key to building proficiency.
- Use Resources: Explore online tutorials, videos, or even enroll in ASL courses to supplement your learning. Visual aids can greatly enhance your understanding.
- Connect with Community: Join ASL practice groups or seek out deaf communities to immerse yourself in the language. Engaging with native signers can provide invaluable practice and cultural insights.
- Record and Review: Use a video recording device to capture your signing. Review your recordings to identify areas for improvement and refine your skills.
- Practice with Others: Find a signing partner, whether it’s a friend, family member, or fellow ASL learner, to practice signing the months together. Peer feedback and collaboration can be highly beneficial.
Remember, learning ASL is not just about memorizing signs. It’s about understanding the culture, history, and context behind the language. Be respectful, patient, and open to learning from the deaf community.
Now, armed with these formal and informal signs for the months in ASL, you can confidently express and understand this fundamental aspect of signing. Keep practicing, connecting with the ASL community, and expanding your knowledge to become proficient in ASL.
Happy signing!
