Learning British Sign Language

This summer I really wanted to learn how to do sign language. I think it's really important to understand it and know how to communicate with more people.

Also, I wanted to write lots of blog posts over the summer but I have so much to do! I haven't had much motivation to do any posts as I am constantly tired from college. So, as a challenge for myself, I want to learn BSL (British sign language) and document my learning, whilst writing as much as I can.

A couple of weeks ago, I decided to buy a book which would help me learn sign language (with a DVD!). Whenever I have free time, I will work through some of the tasks and document how much I have learned and show you my methods of learning/ practicing.

This week, I did the first few chapters of the book and I learned some of the basic words and rules of this language. For example, usually, there is no speaking used when signing unless you are talking to a group of people who are Deaf and hearing. I also did an introduction on facial expressions. Using lots of facial expressions (like shaking head, raising eyebrows and moving your mouth) is very important and I have learned quite a lot- it's very interesting! Some words are mouthed and some are not.

Words learned in week 1:

• hello
• me
• thank you
• well
• you
• Deaf
• hearing
• little bit
• sign
• aunt
• ball
• battery
• niece 
• sister
• uncle
• again
• aha!
• please
• sorry
• understand
• what?