Sign Language
Deaf and hard-of-hearing people communicate using American Sign Language (ASL); fingerspelling; and a variety of other strategies; including speech, speechreading and writing. When communicating with deaf or hard-of-hearing people, it is important that you:
- Get the person's attention. A light touch on the arm, a wave, or other visual signal will help.
- Look directly at deaf person when signing/speaking even when an interpreter is present.
- Make sure lighting enables your face and hands to be clearly visible.
- Speak normally and clearly without shouting.
- Use natural gestures and facial expressions to supplement your communication.
- Keep your hands away your face and mouth while speaking.
- If you have problems being understood, try rephrasing a thought using different words. Writing is also a good way to clarify.
For a paper copy of sign language images, contact:
NTID Marketing Communications Department
(585) 475-6906 V/TTY; (585) 475-5623 FAX
E-mail: NTIDMC@rit.edu
or View online sign language images.
Download a free copy of Adobe Acrobat Reader Software to view acrobat signing images file. pdf format for sign language images
There are also sign language dictionaries online, such as A Basic Dictionary of ASL Terms, available for use.
This material was produced through an agreement between Rochester Institute of Technology and the U.S. Department of Education.
