Why learn American Sign Language?

More than a million people in the United States speak American Sign Language. If someone you love can’t hear well, that’s a great reason to learn ASL! You’ll be able to communicate in a meaningful way with hard of hearing or deaf individuals in the US.

What is Deaf culture?

Deaf with a capital D has a special meaning, different from the inability to hear. Deaf describes a rich visual-based culture that is more than just American Sign Language. Learning Sign Language will open this unique world. Most countries have their own Sign Language, so visual communication can be different from area to area based on the native spoken language. Plus, the deaf community creates their own signs for their names and groups can also develop their own style of signing. At ILC we give priority for hiring deaf instructors so students can experience communicating with a deaf person in class.

Fun facts about American Sign Language

• Signing involves more than just hand shapes and the sign language alphabet. Body positioning and facial expressions are crucial to communicating meaning in sign language! Even a raised eyebrow or switching hands can change meaning.

• ASL is not just making gestures - it has its own grammar and syntax that follows the native spoken language. You’ll learn how to sign based on those rules.