What does ASL mean in LANGUAGE & LITERATURE

America Sign Language (ASL) is a visual language used by deaf, hard of hearing, and those with speech related disabilities. ASL uses hand gestures, facial expression, body language and other visual cues as its primary means of communication.

Yes, each country has its own distinct sign language that is unique from others. ASL is considered its own language separate from other sign languages although it does borrow signs from various languages such as French Sign Language and Native American Sign Language.

There are many ways to learn ASl including classes taught at colleges or universities, attending workshops held by local organizations dedicated to teaching the language or joining an online class or course. It's also possible to learn on your own using websites or books with an instructors guide to help along the way.

Yes, according to the National Association of the Deaf (NAD), “American Sign Language (ASL) is a natural language that serves as the predominant sign language of Deaf communities in the United States and most of Anglophone Canada”.

Yes, ASL has been accepted as one of six official languages at The World Federation of The Deaf (WFD). Additionally, more countries are starting to recognize sign languages like ASL as viable forms of communication just like spoken languages such as English or Spanish for example.