What should you not do when learning sign language?

Question

What should you not do when learning sign language?

Answer 1

Pick your nose.

Answer 2

Close your eyes

Answer 3

THE DON'TS:

1) DON'T learn all of your signs from a book. Chances are, they are old signs that are no longer acceptable. It's also hard to learn how to sign something from a book! Watch real people signing in ASL. Here's a good start to get some vocab words under your belt: http://www.aslpro.com/cgi-bin/aslpro/asl...

2) DON'T think that you can learn Sign Language without immersing yourself in Deaf culture. You MUST be WITH Deaf people to learn ASL the way it's supposed to be signed.

3) DON'T be a boring signer! Add some facial expressions, and paint word pictures with your signs.  Are you signing about something that smelled disgusting? Your face should reflect the worst odor you've ever smelled in your life.

4) DON'T judge Deaf culture. Take it for what it is, and learn from the Deaf.

That's all for now. I would have had more tips if you asked "what should you DO when learning Sign Language." ;o)

Answer 4

when finger spelling, do not "bounce" your hand.  it is hard to watch and see the letters.

don't overdo the mouthing of the words thing.  it's insulting.

always watch the teacher.  don't go chatting with other students, especially if the teacher is Deaf.  very, very rude.

don't rely on pictures in a book.  pictures can be decieving.

don't repeat the sign for thirst or hunger several times in a row, as it then becomes "lust" or "desire"

when signing, wear plain clothing and little to no jewelry.  the clothing should be in contrast to your skin color, and not too bright.  other types of clothing are distracting.  hair in your face makes it so the person reading your signs can not see your face, and therefore cannot see your intentions.  signing "you ready" can either be a statement or a question, "you are ready" or "are you ready?" depending on your expression.

study all the time. practice numbers and letters by doing the numbers and letters you see on license plates.

don't be afraid to look silly, because expression is what ASL is all about.

have fun!

Answer 5

Stroke the person you're signing with and grunt loudly.