PocketSign
Basic

CL:1 for People and Paths

CL:1 can show one person, a long thin object, or a path through space.

All Classifiers lessons
ASL signer showing CL:1 with one upright index finger

Learn It

Start with the simple version, then practice it with real signs.

CL:1 uses one upright index finger. For beginners, the most important use is one person standing or walking.

After you sign PERSON, STUDENT, FRIEND, or a name, CL:1 can show where that person is and how they move.

CL:1 can also trace a path, line, border, or long thin object when the meaning is clear from the setup.

PersonHold CL:1 upright to show one person standing in a spot.
PathMove CL:1 to show walking, turning, falling, or going around something.
Thin objectUse CL:1 for a pencil, stick, pole, or other long thin thing after naming it.

Try It

Practice slowly. Make the classifier movement clear and keep the location steady.

  1. Sign STUDENT, then place CL:1 on your right.
  2. Move CL:1 from right to left to show the student walking across the room.
  3. Sign PENCIL, then use CL:1 sideways to show the pencil lying on a table.

Simple Examples

Read the ASL line first. A dark green pill explains the classifier movement, not an extra sign.

ASL lineSTUDENT,CL:1 walk-left.
MeaningThe student walks left.
TipThe upright index finger stands for one student.
Classifier movementwalk-leftMove CL:1 left through space to show the student walking left.
ASL linePERSON,CL:1 turn-around.
MeaningA person turns around.
TipRotate the hand to show the person changing direction.
Classifier movementturn-aroundTurn or curve CL:1 in place to show the person changing direction.
ASL linePENCIL,CL:1 lie-on-table.
MeaningA pencil is lying on the table.
TipThe same handshape can represent a long thin object after it is named.
Classifier movementlie-on-tableTurn CL:1 sideways and hold it still on the table spot.

Common Mistake

Do not use CL:1 for every person action. If you need to show legs, sitting, jumping, or falling, CL:V may be clearer.

Deeper Note

A little more grammar

CL:1 is flexible because the index finger can show a standing person, a thin object, or a drawn path. The setup tells the viewer which meaning to read.