Hello ASL Heroes!!! Hey, I could really use your help. If you’ve enjoyed having access to an expert in ASL you can help me continue my work for you. A small donation from you would instantly make a big difference here at the studio because teachers don’t earn much and I could use some help paying for server and domain hosting for Lifeprint.com. You can help out a humble (not to mention kind, caring, generous, compassionate, helpful, friendly, fair, and hard-working) ASL teacher -- just go here right now and a few clicks later you too will be a true “ASL Hero!” www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=64QMBRBXQSV6G Thanks! - Dr. Bill p.s. Want to have your very own USB drive with four semesters worth of ASL instruction for just $79.95? See "SuperUSB" in the ASLUniversity bookstore at: lifeprint.com/bookstore/bookstore.htm Take care and love to you all. :)
Hello Mr. Vicars. I was so happy to see that you are continuing with your domain. Now that I know, I will certainly send you some donations. I wish I could give you more. I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoy your lessons.You are a wonderful teacher. Funny and informative. I especially loved "clean your school papers and take off." I went through all the ones you had in 2017 and have learned so much. I don't have any friends who know ASL so I don't get a chance to practice much and therefore have forgotten quite a bit so I am going through the quizzes and lessons again. I use asl in Elvis Tribute Shows and Festivals. I have one question. Do you have any advice for practicing. I have done very well with signing but have a very hard time understanding. I can understand you very well in the lessons, but that's because you are using the words and phrases that were just learned. When there is no frame of reference, even if I know the sign I have a hard time picking it out. Is this something that just comes with practice and time?
Aaron, you asked, "Do you have any advice for practicing?" Response: Do a google search for: ASL Events near me. Deaf Events near me. ASL meetups near me. ASL classes near me. Or if you've got some money, use one of the big online tutor services to find a tutor at around $30 a half hour (online). Or set up your own ASL club by finding a location (perhaps at a library) and then asking your local newspaper to run an announcement for you for free about a "new" club being set up in your area (then provide some sort of contact information for interested people to contact you." Or go to the library and find books on ASL and put a little slip of paper in each book stating that your ASL club meets on such and such day at such and such time. That way when people come to check out an ASL book they will find the slip of paper and come to your club meetings.
This class seems so much faster than the others, but I'm amazed that I'm able to keep up. That is so encouraging. Thank you so much for making these classes available.
You are welcome. If you haven't done so yet, click subscribe and hit the like button. Also share the official ASLU UA-cam master playlist: ua-cam.com/play/PL6akqFwEeSpiLwRFA3ZvuOWMwPXwI7NqA.html with your friends and family so you can have more people to practice signing with.
woah, i just finished watching your old version of lesson 15... (wrote this note there.. but just for good measure I'll add it here as well) Yay!! Finished level one! I just started practicing with a tutour last week. She was really impressed by how well I was able to get on with our completely voice off conversation. I'm hoping to meet with her once a week ,or so, as I continue into level 2. You are an amazing teacher, Dr. Bill! p.s you should add your donate button to your youtube account, I'm so grateful for you to be sharing your classes online; I cant afford to take classes at the local university. but I can totally afford to donate to your generosity!
How to use ASL University to learn sign language for free: 1. Visit Lifeprint.com and become familiar with the ASL University website. 2. Bookmark the official ASLU UA-cam master playlist: ua-cam.com/play/PL6akqFwEeSpiLwRFA3ZvuOWMwPXwI7NqA.html 3. For quick reviews (to prevent memory extinction) bookmark the "Signs" channel playlist page: ua-cam.com/users/Lifeprint-signsplaylists 4. If you use a desktop or laptop computer you can look up signs using this page: www.lifeprint.com/search.htm 5. If you use a mobile device you can look up signs using this page: www.lifeprint.com/search/index.htm 6. If you can’t find a sign after using the search options at Lifeprint.com then consider applying to join the Lifeprint-ASLU Facebook group and asking your question there. See: facebook.com/groups/Lifeprint.ASLU/ 7. Go through the ASLU Lessons for free: www.lifeprint.com/asl101/lessons/lessons.htm Your comments, questions, or suggestions are always welcome. To contact Dr. Bill Vicars, see: www.lifeprint.com/asl101/pages-layout/contact.htm Ways to support the ASL University channel: 1. Click the “thumb up” (like) icon on videos at UA-cam.com/billvicars 2. Click the “subscribe” button at UA-cam.com/billvicars (if you haven't done so yet) 3. Click the “Share” link and share the videos. 4. Visit the “ASLU” bookstore at www.lifeprint.com/bookstore/bookstore.htm (feel free to suggest new products that you would like to see). 5. Buy some ASL University “official” clothing at: ASLU gear: teespring.com/stores/aslu 6. Subscribe to the ASLU subscription site: asl.tc (For information see: lifeprint.com/asltc/ ) 7. Donate via: www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=64QMBRBXQSV6G 8. For other donation options, see: www.Lifeprint.com/donate.htm If you have any friends who might be in a position to do so you might want to consider inviting them to donate -- thus supporting Deaf children and the promotion of free sign language resources via Lifeprint.com
Does ASL 1 consist of Lessons 1-15 or Lessons 1-20? The reason I ask is because I vowed that if I (a Senior citizen) am able to make it through ASL 1, I will send a donation to ASLU. I just finished Lesson 15...so have I completed ASL 1 or do I need to get through Lessons 16-20? I am studying ASL to help me in my volunteer work with adults with developmental disabilities, for my own brain fitness, and it is fun! I greatly appreciate the availability of your on-line lessons.
BT, Congratulations! You have now completed the self-study version of ASL 1. (ASL 1, in the current version of this curriculum consists of Lessons 1 through 15).
I'd like to humbly request captions on these videos if possible! It would help reinforce the vocabulary four times when I forget a weirdy I've learned. I know you're probably very busy though and have no expectations. Thank you for all that you do, Bill!
Hello Mokenet! Here's my humble reply: I tend to use an approach I call “text scaffolding” rather than full captioning. I often combine signing, PowerPoint slides, and occasional typing. It is important to consider the goal of any particular video. My goal isn’t to “share information.” Nor is it to “entertain” (however I do like the so called “edu-tainment” concept). Rather my main goals for most of my videos are to: 1. Instruct 2. Provide an immersive practice environment. Thus I constantly consider the question: “What amount of scaffolding (first language text or “context”) will best help my students build their target language knowledge and skills?” Too little scaffolding and the student gets “frustrated.” Too much scaffolding and the student gets “bored” or doesn’t progress in their L2 (second language) processing skills because they are too busy using their L1 (first language) as a “crutch” (similar to trying to build muscles without lifting weights). It then becomes an impossible but worthy task to attempt to find the “perfect” ratio (of scaffolding). It is impossible because with a couple-hundred-thousand subscribers -- each at individually varying levels of skill and comprehension -- there will always be those who would prefer less "captioning" (scaffolding) and those who would prefer more. The (imperfect) solution (or approach) is to offer a range of instructional videos at varying levels of complexity and a companion website (Lifeprint) wherein those who prefer more “text” (or context) can first go pre-study the individual vocabulary items and sentences for a particular lesson and then come back to the channel and watch the instructional video. Another interesting (to me at least) aspect of (Web 2.0 or the “interactive web”) posting an instructional video to UA-cam (or Facebook or various other interactive / comment-capable platforms) has been the tendency for students to post time-specific links in their comments below the video to ask, “What is Dr. Bill signing at 3:15?” At which point a group-effort is set in motion wherein those who “do” understand what is signed get a feeling of challenge, accomplishment, and camaraderie by posting the answer. I do think it is relevant for viewers who may be frustrated to ask themselves two questions in regard to *signed* video postings: 1. Am I not understanding this (signed) video because it isn’t captioned? 2. Am I not understanding this video because I personally haven’t invested the time the pre-requisite level of ASL for the video I'm attempting to watch? Obviously the answer can be “both.” The first answer attempts to put the responsibility on something or someone else (and doesn’t take much personal effort.) The second answer puts the responsibility on one’s own self. (And takes a massive amount of personal effort and patience.) For example, a person who doesn't understand the video for a particular lesson might need to go back and re-watch previous lesson videos, use the corresponding lesson page and click on individual vocabulary links, or watch the video at a slower speed (using a browser with speed settings), and then watch the video again at normal speed. I certainly appreciate and empathize with the “general” push for captioning of “voiced” videos because it is actually a desire for “access” and “understanding.” All of the above notwithstanding -- someday I do indeed plan on captioning all of my videos if and when my time frees up. Warm regards, - Dr. Bill
@@sign-language Thank you so much for the thoughtful and insightful reply, despite the atrocious typos in my question. You've obviously given this a lot of consideration, and have given me a lot of insight with your reply! I like the idea of asking questions with timestamps for the few words that a student may not understand, and I'll start doing that from now on! It's certainly a clever way to encourage engagement! The occasional times I don't understand signs are generally when you make comments or jokes that aren't explicitly a part of the lesson. And were these videos to have captions, my intention wouldn't be to keep them on the entire time, as this would be distracting and direct attention away from the signs themselves, but to enable them temporarily in such instances as I mentioned before. I definitely see the value of immersion in an (almost) all-ASL dialogue, and I think you've struck a wise balance with your "scaffolding" approach of using slides. This is especially helpful with helping me to understand the differences in grammar between English and sign. Keep up the amazing work. To the other viewers: I strongly encourage anyone reading this to donate to LifePrint or purchase their own digital lessons via the "Super USB" to support Bill and his amazingly generous efforts to educate us, if you have the means to do so! Much love to you, Dr. Vicars. Thank you again for all your help, knowledge, and guidance!
I love the first sign for babysitter because of the meaning. Granted it's not the easiest, but it's better than the English version of hiring someone to "sit upon the baby.". (S.Silverstein)
Nah, no joking there. Just a sanguine embrace of the realities of growing up Deaf. The old maxim "Them that can, do. (The word sanguine means optimistic or positive, especially in an apparently bad or difficult situation. [Source: Oxford] Them that can't -- teach" - is all too true for Deaf. Many Deaf grow up dreaming about various occupations and end up teaching sign language instead. However, in my case I do indeed feel it is fortunate --and I am very grateful-- to have become a teacher because teaching has allowed me to meet 10,000 wonderful people over the past 25 years. Some of them have become very good friends over the years.
Hello I have watched lesson 1through 16 with Katelyn. I'm. Not sure how the format goes I see various girls signing with you but also with lesson 14 and so on. After I watch all of your and Katelyn videos do I choose another girl and start from the beginning with lesson 1? I'm not sure of the order of videos I should be watching because other students have lessons with the same number. Hopefully this question doesn't confuse you. Thanking you in advance.
If I were you I'd use the "master playlist" and go to just past the Lesson 15 video and start watching from there and then watch straight through. If and/or when you encounter a duplicate lesson (with a different student, either skip it OR watch it as a form of review. Or temporarily skip it and come back later as a form of spaced repetition. Also see the other tips below. ============================ How to use ASL University to learn sign language for free: 1. Visit Lifeprint.com and become familiar with the ASL University website. 2. Bookmark the official ASLU UA-cam master playlist: ua-cam.com/play/PL6akqFwEeSpiLwRFA3ZvuOWMwPXwI7NqA.html 3. For quick reviews (to prevent memory extinction) bookmark the "Signs" channel playlist page: ua-cam.com/users/Lifeprint-signsplaylists 4. If you use a desktop or laptop computer you can look up signs using this page: www.lifeprint.com/search.htm 5. If you use a mobile device you can look up signs using this page: www.lifeprint.com/search/index.htm 6. If you can’t find a sign after using the search options at Lifeprint.com then consider applying to join the Lifeprint-ASLU Facebook group and asking your question there. See: facebook.com/groups/Lifeprint.ASLU/ 7. Go through the ASLU Lessons for free: www.lifeprint.com/asl101/lessons/lessons.htm Your comments, questions, or suggestions are always welcome. To contact Dr. Bill Vicars, see: www.lifeprint.com/asl101/pages-layout/contact.htm Ways to support the ASL University channel: 1. Click the “thumb up” (like) icon on videos at UA-cam.com/billvicars 2. Click the “subscribe” button at UA-cam.com/billvicars (if you haven't done so yet) 3. Click the “Share” link and share the videos. 4. Visit the “ASLU” bookstore at www.lifeprint.com/bookstore/bookstore.htm (feel free to suggest new products that you would like to see). 5. Buy some ASL University “official” clothing at: ASLU gear: teespring.com/stores/aslu 6. Subscribe to the ASLU subscription site: asl.tc (For information see: lifeprint.com/asltc/ ) 7. Donate via: www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=64QMBRBXQSV6G 8. For other donation options, see: www.Lifeprint.com/donate.htm If you have any friends who might be in a position to do so you might want to consider inviting them to donate -- thus supporting Deaf children and the promotion of free sign language resources via Lifeprint.com ===========================
Thanks for ASL 1! Is there a good resource for the "etymolygies" of signs? I always find it easier to remember a word in L2 if I can pair it with an origin. IE at 40:25 it looks like SECRETARY uses a K hand shape, do you know why?
The K handshape is the same as a "P" handshape -- which is an initialized form of "write" used to indicate a "pencil." Secretaries used to use pencils a lot. In the old days pencils used to contain a graphite-clay mixture that when licked would leave a darker, more smooth line. For more information see: www.lifeprint.com/asl101/pages-signs/p/pencil.htm So, instead of just viewing the instructional videos here on UA-cam -- you might enjoy visiting the lesson pages at Lifeprint.com and clicking on the individual sign links.
Either is fine: COOK, YOU LIKE? YOU LIKE COOK YOU? LIKE COOK YOU? Sometimes Hearing people say: D'you like cook'n? Which sounds like "Jew like cookun." Yet it is considered "acceptable" for everyday English. It is actually the "native" (high level speaking skill) version.
The sign where you make a number five handshape and put your thumb on your chest and wiggle your fingers is typically labeled as "cool" as in spiffy / neat / a feeling of appreciation or admiration for something (but not the temperature -- that is a different sign).
Hi Dr. Bill! When you were explaining that you used to use a babysitter before but now your children are grown and old enough to take care of themselves. What was the sign where you flicked your fingers on both your shoulders?
One more question Dr. Bill - when you say if anyone needs a singer - what was the meaning behind the sweeping motion before "agent" at 18:42? Thank you
I love signing along with you Dr. Bill as if I'm in the classroom with you. When you signed "IF YOUR FATHER DIVORCE MARRY NEW WOMAN, SHE YOUR WHAT?" I knew the answer would be stepmother but fingerspelled enemy hahahahha then looked up the sign. New vocab *hits cabbage patch*
That sign means several things along the lines of: Not on my shoulders any more Not my problem No longer a concern See: ua-cam.com/video/B4rsPWakLWw/v-deo.html However, that was certainly an effort at levity since I am still very much active in the support of my adult children -or rather I might say my "adulting" children. Indeed though -- I no longer need to pay for a babysitter. Hmmmm... maybe...
@Synamon at 18:42 I did the sign for "sing" and then I did the sign for "music / song / ..." So, the sweeping movement was probably the general "music" sign. Here is the sign for "to sing" ua-cam.com/video/4Vu0HufFvrU/v-deo.html Here is the sign for music: ua-cam.com/video/-OYTTmF4m8M/v-deo.html
I don't know if you still check these but I have recently started learning from you. I am a professional nanny and have yet to find how to do "nanny"... It would be especially nice for my toddler who I sign with to be able to call me something. I know I could do babysitter but I have issues with that because I am much more than a babysitter in my position. I am basically another parent to my kids, not just watching them while mom is gone. The sign babysitter is also particularly complex for a 1 year old which I know is a lesser concern since she will learn to do complex signs with time. She can easily say she wants to go look for mom or dad or even dogs, but she isnt able to request nanny simply because she doesn't have a sign for it. I've seen suggestions of doing a modified mom sign but not sure how that would work either. Any suggestions?
Best would be to make local Deaf friends and discuss your desire for a name sign with them. You could do something rather generic and then change it later if / when you develop more Deaf friends. Maybe tap the thumb of a five-hand on the upper dominant side of the chest (sort of like the sign for "fine" but off to the side a bit). Name signs can be arbitrary without being linked to a characteristic. Or do the mom sign on the heart (thus "at your heart you are a second mom for the child). Yah, it competes with the "fine" sign but later when the child gets older switch to doing a "K" hand.) You should if at all possible get your name sign from local native Deaf socially active adults since they will know if a sign has already been taken locally. (So, of course, stay flexible and open to changing your sign if needed).
Hey Dr. Bill! I want to see if I get the joke at 19:27... are you saying that the 5 shape with wiggly fingers on your nose is "mother in law", but it's funny because it's sort of that vintage gesture TV bullies would do behind their parents/teachers backs, maybe while ticking out their tongue? I love these funny asides in your videos! It really underscores the beautiful nuance and expressiveness of ASL! Thank you for all you do.
@@sign-language lol! Thanks- I’m 35, so no spring chicken myself! Trying to describe that gesture, all I could think of was Leave it to Beaver reacting to a strict teacher’s chastising. I’m an HR guy, I’ve got to stay informed on my malfeasances. Thanks again! My mom and I are simultaneously taking your courses on Zoom -it’s been awesome!
Hello ASL Heroes!!!
Hey, I could really use your help.
If you’ve enjoyed having access to an expert in ASL you can help me continue my work for you. A small donation from you would instantly make a big difference here at the studio because teachers don’t earn much and I could use some help paying for server and domain hosting for Lifeprint.com.
You can help out a humble (not to mention kind, caring, generous, compassionate, helpful, friendly, fair, and hard-working) ASL teacher -- just go here right now and a few clicks later you too will be a true “ASL Hero!”
www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=64QMBRBXQSV6G
Thanks!
- Dr. Bill
p.s. Want to have your very own USB drive with four semesters worth of ASL instruction for just $79.95? See "SuperUSB" in the ASLUniversity bookstore at:
lifeprint.com/bookstore/bookstore.htm
Take care and love to you all.
:)
Hello Mr. Vicars. I was so happy to see that you are continuing with your domain. Now that I know, I will certainly send you some donations. I wish I could give you more. I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoy your lessons.You are a wonderful teacher. Funny and informative. I especially loved "clean your school papers and take off." I went through all the ones you had in 2017 and have learned so much. I don't have any friends who know ASL so I don't get a chance to practice much and therefore have forgotten quite a bit so I am going through the quizzes and lessons again. I use asl in Elvis Tribute Shows and Festivals. I have one question. Do you have any advice for practicing. I have done very well with signing but have a very hard time understanding. I can understand you very well in the lessons, but that's because you are using the words and phrases that were just learned. When there is no frame of reference, even if I know the sign I have a hard time picking it out. Is this something that just comes with practice and time?
Aaron, you asked, "Do you have any advice for practicing?"
Response: Do a google search for:
ASL Events near me.
Deaf Events near me.
ASL meetups near me.
ASL classes near me.
Or if you've got some money, use one of the big online tutor services to find a tutor at around $30 a half hour (online).
Or set up your own ASL club by finding a location (perhaps at a library) and then asking your local newspaper to run an announcement for you for free about a "new" club being set up in your area (then provide some sort of contact information for interested people to contact you."
Or go to the library and find books on ASL and put a little slip of paper in each book stating that your ASL club meets on such and such day at such and such time. That way when people come to check out an ASL book they will find the slip of paper and come to your club meetings.
This class seems so much faster than the others, but I'm amazed that I'm able to keep up. That is so encouraging. Thank you so much for making these classes available.
You are welcome.
If you haven't done so yet, click subscribe and hit the like button. Also share the official ASLU UA-cam master playlist:
ua-cam.com/play/PL6akqFwEeSpiLwRFA3ZvuOWMwPXwI7NqA.html
with your friends and family so you can have more people to practice signing with.
woah, i just finished watching your old version of lesson 15... (wrote this note there.. but just for good measure I'll add it here as well)
Yay!! Finished level one! I just started practicing with a tutour last week. She was really impressed by how well I was able to get on with our completely voice off conversation. I'm hoping to meet with her once a week ,or so, as I continue into level 2. You are an amazing teacher, Dr. Bill!
p.s you should add your donate button to your youtube account, I'm so grateful for you to be sharing your classes online; I cant afford to take classes at the local university. but I can totally afford to donate to your generosity!
Thank you for putting these videos together, they are instrumental in helping me learn this language.
Excellent teacher! Dr. Vicars. makes me miss my professor at NCC garden city NY Alec Naiman. 👍👌
How to use ASL University to learn sign language for free:
1. Visit Lifeprint.com and become familiar with the ASL University website.
2. Bookmark the official ASLU UA-cam master playlist:
ua-cam.com/play/PL6akqFwEeSpiLwRFA3ZvuOWMwPXwI7NqA.html
3. For quick reviews (to prevent memory extinction) bookmark the "Signs" channel playlist page:
ua-cam.com/users/Lifeprint-signsplaylists
4. If you use a desktop or laptop computer you can look up signs using this page: www.lifeprint.com/search.htm
5. If you use a mobile device you can look up signs using this page:
www.lifeprint.com/search/index.htm
6. If you can’t find a sign after using the search options at Lifeprint.com then consider applying to join the Lifeprint-ASLU Facebook group and asking your question there. See:
facebook.com/groups/Lifeprint.ASLU/
7. Go through the ASLU Lessons for free:
www.lifeprint.com/asl101/lessons/lessons.htm
Your comments, questions, or suggestions are always welcome.
To contact Dr. Bill Vicars, see: www.lifeprint.com/asl101/pages-layout/contact.htm
Ways to support the ASL University channel:
1. Click the “thumb up” (like) icon on videos at UA-cam.com/billvicars
2. Click the “subscribe” button at UA-cam.com/billvicars (if you haven't done so yet)
3. Click the “Share” link and share the videos.
4. Visit the “ASLU” bookstore at www.lifeprint.com/bookstore/bookstore.htm (feel free to suggest new products that you would like to see).
5. Buy some ASL University “official” clothing at: ASLU gear: teespring.com/stores/aslu
6. Subscribe to the ASLU subscription site: asl.tc
(For information see: lifeprint.com/asltc/ )
7. Donate via: www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=64QMBRBXQSV6G
8. For other donation options, see: www.Lifeprint.com/donate.htm If you have any friends who might be in a position to do so you might want to consider inviting them to donate -- thus supporting Deaf children and the promotion of free sign language resources via Lifeprint.com
Does ASL 1 consist of Lessons 1-15 or Lessons 1-20? The reason I ask is because I vowed that if I (a Senior citizen) am able to make it through ASL 1, I will send a donation to ASLU. I just finished Lesson 15...so have I completed ASL 1 or do I need to get through Lessons 16-20?
I am studying ASL to help me in my volunteer work with adults with developmental disabilities, for my own brain fitness, and it is fun! I greatly appreciate the availability of your on-line lessons.
BT,
Congratulations! You have now completed the self-study version of ASL 1.
(ASL 1, in the current version of this curriculum consists of Lessons 1 through 15).
Just finished this lesson 15. onto the next lesson. will continue to do all the lessons and then do the all over again.
Letting you know I've seen your comment.
I'd like to humbly request captions on these videos if possible! It would help reinforce the vocabulary four times when I forget a weirdy I've learned. I know you're probably very busy though and have no expectations. Thank you for all that you do, Bill!
Hello Mokenet!
Here's my humble reply:
I tend to use an approach I call “text scaffolding” rather than full captioning. I often combine signing, PowerPoint slides, and occasional typing. It is important to consider the goal of any particular video. My goal isn’t to “share information.” Nor is it to “entertain” (however I do like the so called “edu-tainment” concept). Rather my main goals for most of my videos are to:
1. Instruct
2. Provide an immersive practice environment.
Thus I constantly consider the question:
“What amount of scaffolding (first language text or “context”) will best help my students build their target language knowledge and skills?”
Too little scaffolding and the student gets “frustrated.”
Too much scaffolding and the student gets “bored” or doesn’t progress in their L2 (second language) processing skills because they are too busy using their L1 (first language) as a “crutch” (similar to trying to build muscles without lifting weights).
It then becomes an impossible but worthy task to attempt to find the “perfect” ratio (of scaffolding). It is impossible because with a couple-hundred-thousand subscribers -- each at individually varying levels of skill and comprehension -- there will always be those who would prefer less "captioning" (scaffolding) and those who would prefer more.
The (imperfect) solution (or approach) is to offer a range of instructional videos at varying levels of complexity and a companion website (Lifeprint) wherein those who prefer more “text” (or context) can first go pre-study the individual vocabulary items and sentences for a particular lesson and then come back to the channel and watch the instructional video.
Another interesting (to me at least) aspect of (Web 2.0 or the “interactive web”) posting an instructional video to UA-cam (or Facebook or various other interactive / comment-capable platforms) has been the tendency for students to post time-specific links in their comments below the video to ask, “What is Dr. Bill signing at 3:15?” At which point a group-effort is set in motion wherein those who “do” understand what is signed get a feeling of challenge, accomplishment, and camaraderie by posting the answer.
I do think it is relevant for viewers who may be frustrated to ask themselves two questions in regard to *signed* video postings:
1. Am I not understanding this (signed) video because it isn’t captioned?
2. Am I not understanding this video because I personally haven’t invested the time the pre-requisite level of ASL for the video I'm attempting to watch?
Obviously the answer can be “both.”
The first answer attempts to put the responsibility on something or someone else (and doesn’t take much personal effort.)
The second answer puts the responsibility on one’s own self. (And takes a massive amount of personal effort and patience.)
For example, a person who doesn't understand the video for a particular lesson might need to go back and re-watch previous lesson videos, use the corresponding lesson page and click on individual vocabulary links, or watch the video at a slower speed (using a browser with speed settings), and then watch the video again at normal speed.
I certainly appreciate and empathize with the “general” push for captioning of “voiced” videos because it is actually a desire for “access” and “understanding.”
All of the above notwithstanding -- someday I do indeed plan on captioning all of my videos if and when my time frees up.
Warm regards,
- Dr. Bill
@@sign-language Thank you so much for the thoughtful and insightful reply, despite the atrocious typos in my question. You've obviously given this a lot of consideration, and have given me a lot of insight with your reply! I like the idea of asking questions with timestamps for the few words that a student may not understand, and I'll start doing that from now on! It's certainly a clever way to encourage engagement! The occasional times I don't understand signs are generally when you make comments or jokes that aren't explicitly a part of the lesson. And were these videos to have captions, my intention wouldn't be to keep them on the entire time, as this would be distracting and direct attention away from the signs themselves, but to enable them temporarily in such instances as I mentioned before.
I definitely see the value of immersion in an (almost) all-ASL dialogue, and I think you've struck a wise balance with your "scaffolding" approach of using slides. This is especially helpful with helping me to understand the differences in grammar between English and sign. Keep up the amazing work.
To the other viewers: I strongly encourage anyone reading this to donate to LifePrint or purchase their own digital lessons via the "Super USB" to support Bill and his amazingly generous efforts to educate us, if you have the means to do so!
Much love to you, Dr. Vicars. Thank you again for all your help, knowledge, and guidance!
This is for me the best method. Thanks.
I love the first sign for babysitter because of the meaning. Granted it's not the easiest, but it's better than the English version of hiring someone to "sit upon the baby.". (S.Silverstein)
Wow the gesture I asked a couple of videos ago answered here: The third 'how much'. Finally lol
Hi Dr. Bill and other students
Nah, no joking there. Just a sanguine embrace of the realities of growing up Deaf. The old maxim "Them that can, do. (The word sanguine means optimistic or positive, especially in an apparently bad or difficult situation. [Source: Oxford]
Them that can't -- teach"
- is all too true for Deaf.
Many Deaf grow up dreaming about various occupations and end up teaching sign language instead.
However, in my case I do indeed feel it is fortunate --and I am very grateful-- to have become a teacher because teaching has allowed me to meet 10,000 wonderful people over the past 25 years. Some of them have become very good friends over the years.
Hello I have watched lesson 1through 16 with Katelyn. I'm. Not sure how the format goes I see various girls signing with you but also with lesson 14 and so on. After I watch all of your and Katelyn videos do I choose another girl and start from the beginning with lesson 1? I'm not sure of the order of videos I should be watching because other students have lessons with the same number. Hopefully this question doesn't confuse you. Thanking you in advance.
If I were you I'd use the "master playlist" and go to just past the Lesson 15 video and start watching from there and then watch straight through. If and/or when you encounter a duplicate lesson (with a different student, either skip it OR watch it as a form of review. Or temporarily skip it and come back later as a form of spaced repetition.
Also see the other tips below.
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How to use ASL University to learn sign language for free:
1. Visit Lifeprint.com and become familiar with the ASL University website.
2. Bookmark the official ASLU UA-cam master playlist:
ua-cam.com/play/PL6akqFwEeSpiLwRFA3ZvuOWMwPXwI7NqA.html
3. For quick reviews (to prevent memory extinction) bookmark the "Signs" channel playlist page:
ua-cam.com/users/Lifeprint-signsplaylists
4. If you use a desktop or laptop computer you can look up signs using this page: www.lifeprint.com/search.htm
5. If you use a mobile device you can look up signs using this page:
www.lifeprint.com/search/index.htm
6. If you can’t find a sign after using the search options at Lifeprint.com then consider applying to join the Lifeprint-ASLU Facebook group and asking your question there. See:
facebook.com/groups/Lifeprint.ASLU/
7. Go through the ASLU Lessons for free:
www.lifeprint.com/asl101/lessons/lessons.htm
Your comments, questions, or suggestions are always welcome.
To contact Dr. Bill Vicars, see: www.lifeprint.com/asl101/pages-layout/contact.htm
Ways to support the ASL University channel:
1. Click the “thumb up” (like) icon on videos at UA-cam.com/billvicars
2. Click the “subscribe” button at UA-cam.com/billvicars (if you haven't done so yet)
3. Click the “Share” link and share the videos.
4. Visit the “ASLU” bookstore at www.lifeprint.com/bookstore/bookstore.htm (feel free to suggest new products that you would like to see).
5. Buy some ASL University “official” clothing at: ASLU gear: teespring.com/stores/aslu
6. Subscribe to the ASLU subscription site: asl.tc
(For information see: lifeprint.com/asltc/ )
7. Donate via: www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=64QMBRBXQSV6G
8. For other donation options, see: www.Lifeprint.com/donate.htm If you have any friends who might be in a position to do so you might want to consider inviting them to donate -- thus supporting Deaf children and the promotion of free sign language resources via Lifeprint.com
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The iPhone 4 was such a good model
Thanks for ASL 1! Is there a good resource for the "etymolygies" of signs? I always find it easier to remember a word in L2 if I can pair it with an origin. IE at 40:25 it looks like SECRETARY uses a K hand shape, do you know why?
The K handshape is the same as a "P" handshape -- which is an initialized form of "write" used to indicate a "pencil." Secretaries used to use pencils a lot. In the old days pencils used to contain a graphite-clay mixture that when licked would leave a darker, more smooth line.
For more information see: www.lifeprint.com/asl101/pages-signs/p/pencil.htm
So, instead of just viewing the instructional videos here on UA-cam -- you might enjoy visiting the lesson pages at Lifeprint.com and clicking on the individual sign links.
Omg the fact that Katelyn has the old iPhone 4 in this video lol! It's crazy how technology has advanced so much and so fast!
7:12 I'm doing some review and I'm wondering why this isn't, "COOK, YOU LIKE?" or would either be fine?
Either is fine:
COOK, YOU LIKE?
YOU LIKE COOK YOU?
LIKE COOK YOU?
Sometimes Hearing people say:
D'you like cook'n?
Which sounds like "Jew like cookun."
Yet it is considered "acceptable" for everyday English. It is actually the "native" (high level speaking skill) version.
@ 4:58 : flick fingers of both hands over shoulders. Context seems to mean 'all done' w/ babysitters/it's in the past. Is that correct?
It means "not on my shoulders."
Not my responsibility.
1:44 i can't stop laughing, it's too funny.
And THAT's why you should always ask for references and do a background check when hiring a babysitter!
What is the sign where you make a number five handshapes and put your thumb on your chest and wiggle your fingers?
The sign where you make a number five handshape and put your thumb on your chest and wiggle your fingers is typically labeled as "cool" as in spiffy / neat / a feeling of appreciation or admiration for something (but not the temperature -- that is a different sign).
@@sign-language Thank you!!!!!!!! I really love learning asl from your channel :)
Tell everyone you know.
(wink)
Hi Dr. Bill! When you were explaining that you used to use a babysitter before but now your children are grown and old enough to take care of themselves. What was the sign where you flicked your fingers on both your shoulders?
One more question Dr. Bill - when you say if anyone needs a singer - what was the meaning behind the sweeping motion before "agent" at 18:42?
Thank you
I love signing along with you Dr. Bill as if I'm in the classroom with you. When you signed "IF YOUR FATHER DIVORCE MARRY NEW WOMAN, SHE YOUR WHAT?" I knew the answer would be stepmother but fingerspelled enemy hahahahha then looked up the sign. New vocab *hits cabbage patch*
That sign means several things along the lines of:
Not on my shoulders any more
Not my problem
No longer a concern
See: ua-cam.com/video/B4rsPWakLWw/v-deo.html
However, that was certainly an effort at levity since I am still very much active in the support of my adult children -or rather I might say my "adulting" children. Indeed though -- I no longer need to pay for a babysitter. Hmmmm... maybe...
@Synamon
at 18:42 I did the sign for "sing" and then I did the sign for "music / song / ..."
So, the sweeping movement was probably the general "music" sign.
Here is the sign for "to sing"
ua-cam.com/video/4Vu0HufFvrU/v-deo.html
Here is the sign for music:
ua-cam.com/video/-OYTTmF4m8M/v-deo.html
I don't know if you still check these but I have recently started learning from you. I am a professional nanny and have yet to find how to do "nanny"... It would be especially nice for my toddler who I sign with to be able to call me something. I know I could do babysitter but I have issues with that because I am much more than a babysitter in my position. I am basically another parent to my kids, not just watching them while mom is gone. The sign babysitter is also particularly complex for a 1 year old which I know is a lesser concern since she will learn to do complex signs with time. She can easily say she wants to go look for mom or dad or even dogs, but she isnt able to request nanny simply because she doesn't have a sign for it. I've seen suggestions of doing a modified mom sign but not sure how that would work either. Any suggestions?
Best would be to make local Deaf friends and discuss your desire for a name sign with them.
You could do something rather generic and then change it later if / when you develop more Deaf friends. Maybe tap the thumb of a five-hand on the upper dominant side of the chest (sort of like the sign for "fine" but off to the side a bit). Name signs can be arbitrary without being linked to a characteristic.
Or do the mom sign on the heart (thus "at your heart you are a second mom for the child). Yah, it competes with the "fine" sign but later when the child gets older switch to doing a "K" hand.)
You should if at all possible get your name sign from local native Deaf socially active adults since they will know if a sign has already been taken locally. (So, of course, stay flexible and open to changing your sign if needed).
@@sign-language Thank you so much for your response!
Hey Dr. Bill! I want to see if I get the joke at 19:27... are you saying that the 5 shape with wiggly fingers on your nose is "mother in law", but it's funny because it's sort of that vintage gesture TV bullies would do behind their parents/teachers backs, maybe while ticking out their tongue? I love these funny asides in your videos! It really underscores the beautiful nuance and expressiveness of ASL! Thank you for all you do.
Good job Brad! You caught the joke!
Umm... wow... "vintage gesture" oh my heck I'm getting old. Yup. Dang!
@@sign-language lol! Thanks- I’m 35, so no spring chicken myself! Trying to describe that gesture, all I could think of was Leave it to Beaver reacting to a strict teacher’s chastising. I’m an HR guy, I’ve got to stay informed on my malfeasances.
Thanks again! My mom and I are simultaneously taking your courses on Zoom -it’s been awesome!
If we buy "Bill Vicars merchandise" do the profits to to ASLU?
The stuff listed at TeeSpring? Yes. TeeSpring takes a chunk of it for operating and manufacturing expenses but some of it goes to ASLU.
I like her she has nice personally
Oh my god my perception on fingerspelling is still soooo bad lol
The us President is...OBAMA 🎉*sigh* I remember those days
She, look,s,tired