Exploring the 5 Handshape in ASL

Written By Cheri Dowling

Exploring the 5 Handshape in ASL is a focused, language-rich class designed for ASL learners at all levels, from beginners to advanced signers. This class takes a deeper look at how a single handshape can be used to create many different signs and meanings in American Sign Language.

Participants will explore a wide range of signs that use the 5 handshape and examine how changes in movement, location, palm orientation, and facial expression impact meaning. Rather than memorizing isolated vocabulary, this class emphasizes understanding patterns within ASL and how handshapes function as part of the language’s visual and grammatical structure.

This class encourages curiosity, exploration, and discussion, making it appropriate for learners with varying levels of experience. Beginners will gain insight into how ASL works beyond individual signs, while more experienced learners will deepen their understanding of nuance, variation, and expressive use of the 5 handshape.

In this class, participants will:

  • Explore common and advanced signs that use the 5 handshape

  • Learn how movement, placement, and orientation affect meaning

  • Practice incorporating facial expressions and non-manual signals

  • Develop a stronger understanding of ASL as a visual language system

  • Build confidence using handshape patterns in real-life communication

Exploring the 5 Handshape in ASL is ideal for families, professionals, and community members who want to grow their ASL skills and gain a deeper appreciation for how meaning is built through visual language

Register at: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/exploring-the-5-handshape-in-asl

Cheri Dowling
Previous

Making Everyday Family Activities Fun and Accessible for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children
Next

Beginning ASL: The Basics