Though it may resemble English in many ways, American Sign Language or ASL is a distinct language all its own, specially crafted to serve the communications needs of the Deaf and hard of hearing communities. Asl.ms is a website designed to provide training, practice and practical assistance for those learning ASL, developed and operated by Dr. Bill Vicars.
Visitors to asl.ms may use the site no matter what their skill level. The chief feature is an animated testing application that shows common letters, words and phrases in ASL and allows the visitor to test themselves on their knowledge. The application is adjustable by number of letters presented and how fast, allowing the trainee to step up the speed as they gain confidence.
In addition to this basic teaching method, asl.ms has a number of specific sub-areas dedicated to particular sections of the language. There is a broad-based presentation on American Sign Language in general, which talks about the origins of this communications method and acts as a dictionary for a wide number of words and phrases. Visitors to ASL may learn the fingerspelling font, and match it up with sign language charts. A listing of common letter combinations are available, as well as a way to translate spoken names into finger gestures. For basic learners, a slideshow of the alphabet as signed in ASL is available, and those who are ready can respond to words, translating them into the language in an interactive way. The entire asl.ms site is available for purchase on CD-ROM, giving even more opportunities for constructive training.
Asl In The Web
