Tag: Communication

How many numbers are there? Some may say that numbers go up to infinity. But how many numbers do we use in day to day life? Maybe more then we realise.

While learning numbers in my Introductory BSL course I learnt numbers 1-100. I have 4 videos below. Each showing the different number signs. Breaking learning into manageable chunks.

This first video is the number sign itself:

Next up is the numbers 1-10. There are 3 systems of signing in regards to the numbers 6-10. These systems are variations of signs that have evolved in different parts of the world. I have learnt system 1 during this course. Although, it is good to be aware of each system.

As with numbers 6-10, numbers 11-20 also have 3 systems types for the signs in different parts of the country. Again, I’ve learnt system 1, shown in my video.

The next video is showing the numbers going up in 10s. From the above videos of 1-20, it’s easy to learn the numbers in between. For example, 27 is signing the number 2 and 7.

Previous: Alphabet

Next: Colours

Let’s start with the alphabet. It’s what I first learnt. Just like with writing, learning the alphabet made it easier down the road when learning words. Letters make the words right. Some word signs are linked to the individual letter signs too.

BSL uses the two-handed fingerspelling. Some other sign languages may use only the one hand. The alphabet is used when the signs are not known for words or there hasn’t been a sign assigned. Like names for example.

TIP: The fingers of the non-dominant hand, so my left, represent the vowels; A E I O U. When these signs are used, I will point my dominant hand, my right to the finger the letter represents.

Previous: Introduction

Next: Numbers

Welcome to my Introduction to British Sign Language Series. Over the past year, I have been learning BSL. Learning the basics and being able to start having conversations.

Usually, once I’ve completed some learning if I don’t have it incorporated into my life, it takes a back seat. Some to the point I have forgotten it once I may need it. I didn’t want this to happen with the sign language.

I may not have the need to use sign language in my daily life right now. But I would love to be able to communicate with those who use this method. One day have it within my job role to continue helping people regardless of their communication abilities.

To help me re-cap on what I have learnt and to be able to look back to signs that I don’t use regularly at any point in my life, I decided to make videos. These videos are of me signing what I have learnt. They range from 30 seconds to 2 minutes; depending on the amount within a certain topic.

One of my goals was to share these videos. Being that my blog is now 1 year old and to prove to myself that I can show others what I have accomplished. Building up my courage and confidence in myself and my work. I decided now would be the right time.

Whether learning BSL is something you’ve wanted to do or you just want to watch the videos to see what I have done. Each month, I will be sharing with you a new video.

Let’s begin; here is a video showing the signs that can be done for BSL:

Next: Alphabet