Learning the Basics of American Sign Language (ASL): How Many in ASL
When it comes to learning American Sign Language (ASL), one of the first things you'll want to focus on is understanding the numbers. Knowing how to sign the numbers in ASL can be a game-changer, as it will allow you to communicate effectively with others and navigate everyday situations with ease. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the numbers in ASL, including how to sign individual digits and common number-related phrases.
The Individual Digits: A Guide
The individual digits in ASL are relatively simple to learn, and with a little practice, you'll be able to recognize and reproduce them with ease. Here's a quick rundown of how to sign each digit from 1 to 9:
- One: Hold up one finger, with your palm facing forward.
- Two: Hold up two fingers, with your palm facing forward.
- Three: Hold up three fingers, with your palm facing forward.
- Four: Hold up four fingers, with your palm facing forward.
- Five: Hold up your entire hand, with all five fingers extended and your palm facing forward.
- Six: Hold up your entire hand, with all five fingers extended and your thumb and pinky finger touching.
- Seven: Hold up your entire hand, with all five fingers extended and your thumb and index finger touching.
- Eight: Hold up your entire hand, with all five fingers extended and your thumb and middle finger touching.
- Nine: Hold up your entire hand, with all five fingers extended and your thumb and ring finger touching.
Signing Numbers Beyond 10: How It Works
Once you've mastered the individual digits, you'll want to learn how to sign numbers beyond 10. This is where things can get a bit more complex, but don't worry – with some practice, you'll be a pro in no time. Here's how to sign numbers 11 to 20:
| Number | ASL Sign |
|---|---|
| 11 | Hold up one finger and then two fingers. |
| 12 | Hold up two fingers and then one finger. |
| 13 | Hold up three fingers and then two fingers. |
| 14 | Hold up two fingers and then four fingers. |
| 15 | Hold up one finger and then five fingers. |
| 16 | Hold up six fingers and then one finger. |
| 17 | Hold up seven fingers and then two fingers. |
| 18 | Hold up two fingers and then eight fingers. |
| 19 | Hold up one finger and then nine fingers. |
| 20 | Hold up both hands with all ten fingers extended. |
Common Number-Related Phrases
While it's great to know how to sign individual numbers, you'll also want to learn some common number-related phrases. Here are a few examples:
- How many? (points to yourself and then to another person):
- How old are you? (holds up the age and then points to yourself):
- I have 10 dollars (holds up ten fingers and then mimes holding a dollar bill):
- That costs $20 (holds up 20 fingers and then mimes holding a dollar bill):
Putting It All Together: Practicing Your Numbers in ASL
Learning the numbers in ASL takes time and practice, but with consistent effort, you'll be able to recognize and reproduce them with ease. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Start with the individual digits and practice signing them until you feel comfortable.
Once you've mastered the individual digits, move on to signing numbers beyond 10.
Practice signing common number-related phrases, such as "how many?" and "I have 10 dollars."
Watch ASL videos and practice along with the signs.
Take a class or work with a tutor to get personalized feedback and improve your skills.
