How to Sign "I Am Learning Sign Language"
To sign "I am learning sign language," combine the signs for LEARN, SIGN, and LANGUAGE. Start with LEARN by holding your non-dominant hand flat, palm up. Place your dominant hand on the palm, then pull it up toward your forehead while closing your fingers into a flat 'O' shape. Next, sign SIGN by pointing both index fingers up and moving them in alternating backward circles. Finally, sign LANGUAGE by forming 'L' shapes with both hands, touching the thumbs together in front of you, and pulling them apart in a wavy motion.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The signs in this phrase are beautifully iconic and highly visual. The sign for 'LEARN' mimics the action of physically picking up information or knowledge from a book—represented by your flat non-dominant hand—and placing it directly into your brain. 'SIGN' uses alternating circular motions to represent hands actively gesturing and communicating. Finally, 'LANGUAGE' visually represents a continuous flow of words or sentences being drawn out, connected, and shared.
Signing Tips
Focus on creating smooth, fluid transitions between the three distinct signs. As a beginner, it is tempting to pause heavily between each word, but try to let the end of 'LEARN' flow naturally into the start of 'SIGN.' Additionally, remember that you do not need to sign the English words 'I' or 'am' separately. In ASL, simply signing 'LEARN SIGN LANGUAGE' while nodding or pointing to yourself clearly conveys the full meaning.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake for beginners is moving the index fingers forward instead of backward when signing 'SIGN.' Ensure the circular motion rolls backward toward your body. Another frequent error is keeping the dominant hand open during 'LEARN.' Make sure your fingers close into a flat 'O' shape as your hand approaches your forehead, capturing the idea of grasping knowledge.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "I Am Learning Sign Language" in a Sentence
1I am learning sign language at school.
To express this, you would first sign "I am learning sign language" using the sequence of LEARN, SIGN, and LANGUAGE. Then, finish the sentence by signing "SCHOOL," which is done by clapping your flat hands together twice.
2Nice to meet you, I am learning sign language.
This is a great introductory phrase. Start by signing "NICE" and "MEET YOU" to greet the person. Then, transition smoothly into "LEARN SIGN LANGUAGE" to let them know you are a beginner and that they should be patient.
3Please sign slow, I am learning sign language.
When interacting with fluent signers, you can sign "PLEASE" and "SLOW" first to ask them to adjust their pace. Following up with "LEARN SIGN LANGUAGE" provides the perfect context for why you need them to slow down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to sign the words "I" and "am"?
No, in ASL, "am" is a "to be" verb that is typically dropped entirely. You can point to yourself for "I," but often simply signing "LEARN SIGN LANGUAGE" with a self-referential nod is perfectly understood by fluent signers.
Can I just sign "LEARN ASL" instead?
Yes! Signing "LEARN" followed by fingerspelling the letters A-S-L is a very common, natural, and efficient alternative to signing the full phrase "SIGN LANGUAGE." Many Deaf individuals and fluent signers use this shorter version in everyday casual conversation.
Does it matter which hand is on top for the sign LEARN?
Yes, hand dominance is important here. Your non-dominant hand should act as the stationary, flat "book" on the bottom. Your dominant hand is the active hand that does the moving to "pick up" the information and bring it to your forehead. Keeping this consistent helps your signing look natural.
Related ASL Signs
