Want to learn something interesting about ASL? Did you know that you may be able to communicate more effectively WITHOUT actually signing?

I know, crazy right? But it's true according to a study done by Annika Hermann and Markus Steinbach pertaining to nonmanuals in sign languages. Nonmanuals are any gestures that are not literal signed movements. These include the speed of signing, body movements, and, more importantly, facial expressions. 

So if you were to sign "mother" (as we learned last week) and make a face that looks like you smell rotten garbage...probably giving your audience a bit more insight into how you really feel!

So remember to watch out for those powerful nonverbals! If you' like to read more, check out the study in Sign Language & Linguistics magazine or drop me a comment and I can send you the direct link!

Signing off!
Emily