How to Fingerspell

Fingerspelling is using a manual alphabet, in this case the American Sign Language alphabet, to spell out a word letter by letter. Fingerspelling is useful if the sign for a given action or word is unknown, as well as during introductions, as names will need to be spelled out initially. Also, some words are specific to a given context (i.e., medical terminology) and may not have an accepted sign that is widely know, making fingerspelling useful.

Instructions

    • 1

      Watch a visual model of the American Sign Language alphabet. This may be done with an online model or with a skilled individual. Viewing the action is much easier than reading a book or looking at static images.

    • 2

      Watch the model again and practice your own hand motions with the "expert." Repeat this step until you begin to feel fluid in your hand motions following the manual alphabet.

    • 3

      Practice in front of a mirror fingerspelling the alphabet, as well as words and phrases you think you may need. Monitor your movement and refer back to the model as necessary. The goal of this step is to focus on fluency or speed of fingerspelling.

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