Question 1

What is sign language?

Accepted Answer

Sign language is a way of talking using hands, facial expressions, and body movements instead of using your voice.

Question 2

Why do some people use sign language?

Accepted Answer

Some people use sign language because they can't hear well or at all, so it's a great way for them to communicate.

Question 3

How did sign languages begin?

Accepted Answer

Sign languages began when people who couldn't hear started using hand gestures and signs to talk to each other.

Question 4

Do all countries have the same sign language?

Accepted Answer

No, different countries have their own sign languages, just like how they have different spoken languages!

Question 5

What is American Sign Language (ASL)?

Accepted Answer

American Sign Language, or ASL, is the sign language used in the United States and parts of Canada.

Question 6

Are there any famous people who use sign language?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are famous people who are Deaf and use sign language, like actress Marlee Matlin.

Question 7

Can you learn sign language even if you can hear?

Accepted Answer

Yes, anyone can learn sign language! It's a great way to talk to more people and make new friends.

Question 8

How are new signs made in sign languages?

Accepted Answer

New signs are created as people make up ways to sign new things, like new technology or names.

Question 9

Is sign language easy to learn?

Accepted Answer

Like learning any language, it can be a little hard at first, but with practice, it becomes easier.

Question 10

Can sign languages express as much as spoken languages?

Accepted Answer

Yes, sign languages can say just as much as spoken languages. They can show feelings and ideas the same way.

Question 11

What is a sign language interpreter?

Accepted Answer

A sign language interpreter is a person who listens to someone speaking and then signs it so Deaf people can understand.

Question 12

Do babies use sign language?

Accepted Answer

Some babies use simple sign language with their parents before they can speak to show when they’re hungry or tired.

Question 13

How do sign languages evolve or change over time?

Accepted Answer

Sign languages change over time as people create new signs and as new ideas and technology need new words.

Question 14

Do animals use a type of sign language?

Accepted Answer

Some trained animals, like Koko the gorilla, learned some human sign language to communicate simple things.

Question 15

What is British Sign Language (BSL)?

Accepted Answer

British Sign Language, or BSL, is the sign language used in the United Kingdom.

Question 16

Why do sign languages have their own grammar?

Accepted Answer

Just like spoken languages, sign languages have their own rules for putting signs together to make sense.

Question 17

Can computers help people learn sign language?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are apps and videos on computers that can help people learn sign language.

Question 18

What can I do to help people who use sign language?

Accepted Answer

You can learn some basic signs to talk with them or share what you know with others so more people understand.

Question 19

What does it mean when people say sign language is a "natural language"?

Accepted Answer

It means sign languages develop naturally among people, just like spoken languages do, without being made up on purpose.

Question 20

Why are facial expressions important in sign language?

Accepted Answer

Facial expressions in sign language help show emotions, questions, and other important details, just like tone of voice in spoken languages.

The Evolution of Sign Languages - 20 FAQs Explained Simply