Just like any other, sign language is an essential form of communication, which is used worldwide. It is a non-verbal form of communication which uses a sequence of hand gestures. And just like any other language, sign language also has its own slang words, dictionary and variation in dialects.
Thus learning sign language can prove beneficial even if you don’t need it in your daily life and can help you communicate with someone with a hearing disability. There are lots of tools available online to help you learn sign language, and we’ve made it easier for you by compiling a list of the seven best websites and apps to help you learn the sign language.
The ASL App
The ASL app is fun and easy to use. It contains over 1500 different signs you can learn for free. ASL refers to American Sign Language, which is one of the most commonly used sign languages today.
The app was designed by bilingual (English & ASL) deaf people to teach conversational sign language alongwith the sign language alphabet as well. It has over 1000 vides often showing two ASL speakers simulating a real-life conversation.
You can download the ASL app here.
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SignLanguage101.com
Signlanguage101.com is a website where you can learn all the basics of ASL from the alphabet, everyday phrases and words, signs about sports and games and a lot more. The site contains some great videos which feature Dr Byron Bridges’ remarkable explanations, and the best part is that it is entirely free to use.
You can visit SignLanguage101 here.
StartASL.com
Similar to Signlanguage101.com, this site allows you to learn sign language for free online. It features over 40 lessons as well as exercises through which you can track your learning.
Also, if you aren’t satisfied with the necessary lessons, you can further your knowledge by opting for the advanced level courses. These additional courses are of three types – Bronze, Silver and Gold at $9.95, $19.95 and $49.95 per month, respectively.
You can visit StartASL.com here.
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Marlee Signs
This app is available on iOS devices only and is a great way to learn the American sign language. It features video lessons from Academy Award-winning actress Marlee Matlin who teaches the fundamentals of ASL along with common phrases as well.
The app is currently available only iOS devices and is free to download and use and also has extra paid lessons priced at $1.99 each.
You can download the Marlee Signs app here.
LessonTutor.com
LessonTutor.com is another excellent website for learning the ASL and more. Here you can find some great tools to help with your learning experiences such as lesson plans and worksheets and more.
The website also offers over 30 free sign language lessons as well as articles on body language and sign language culture. Very simple sign language skills for children and babies are also available.
You can visit LessonTutor.com here.
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Expert Village
Expert Village is a popular YouTube channel known for its many tutorials on various topics from photography to naturopathy. Among its playlists is a sign language tutorial which includes all the basics as well as many commonly used phrases. All of this being available on YouTube means its completely free to use.
You can visit the Expert Village YouTube channel here.
SchoolOfSignLanguage.com
This website defers from the others mentioned in this list in the fact that it teaches you the British Sign Language or BSL. Sign language, as mentioned before, is mostly a language and hence contains different dialects meaning BSL varies from ASL, the American version.
Their website features explanation on the BSL alphabet, how to communicate with a deaf person as well as commonly used phrases and words.
You can visit SchoolsOfSignLanguages.com here.
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