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Inclusive 4-HExpressive, eloquent language provides another way to communicate
Humans use nonverbal communication so naturally that most of us don’t think much about it. People use signs to communicate every day, whether by telling someone to be quiet by putting an index finger to their lips (a gesture) or by expressing disappointment in someone else by giving them “the look” (a facial expression). We often add emphasis to what we’re saying by “talking” with our hands, which is a natural way of communicating for Deaf people. American Sign Language (ASL) is a visual-gestural language. It’s the language of the American Deaf community and the fourth most used language in the United States. ASL isn’t the same as signing exact English, which is also possible; ASL is a full, complete and eloquent language in itself. In fact, many ASL signs don’t translate into spoken English well at all. Actually, some people feel that ASL is more expressive than spoken English. I’ve taught sign language at 4-H Exploration Days for almost 10 years. Participants learn and practice basic vocabulary with games and conversation. Kids and adults in the session find that signing is fun and easy to learn. They don’t all learn to sign well during the short time that we have, nor do they all continue to study sign language, but many do stay interested in signing and enjoy using their new skills. ASL is becoming increasingly popular across the nation. It has gained acceptance as a second language course in many schools. ASL interpreters are exposing us to the language as they interpret in schools, churches, at meetings and important public functions. In addition to conversation, people are discovering ASL as an art form in musical performances and theater productions. Many Michigan communities offer sign language courses, often through community education programs, community colleges or the intermediate school district. You can also find books and videos on learning to sign at your local library, bookstore or video store. Author,
Carrie Dersham, is a former 4-H’er and a certified teacher
of the hearing impaired. She teaches kindergarten at Henry H. North
Elementary School in Lansing. Carrie has taught sign language classes
through community education programs in Holt and Okemos, and has
taught ASL as a foreign language at Everett High School in Lansing. Contact Information For more information on how to get involved as a youth or volunteer, contact your county MSU Extension office or: Karen Waite,
4-H Youth Equine Specialist Phone: 517-353-1748 Copyright
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