How Do You Learn British Sign Language?
British Sign Language, or BSL, is the most commonly used sign language in the United Kingdom. Approximately 70,000 people in the UK use BSL as their primary language. In 2003, BSL was recognized as an official minority language, making it comparable in standing with Gaelic or Welsh. BSL is a visual language, incorporating facial expressions, hand signs and overall body language. Using your chart or a BSL book, study the BSL two-handed alphabet. Practice until you have it memorized and can do it fluently. Fingerspell words using the BSL alphabet. Begin by spelling out short words, like ‘pen,’ and gradually build up to longer words, like ‘Manchester.’ Learn to sign simple vocabulary words by studying websites or BSL sign books. The website british-sign.co.uk is a good website for basic vocabulary signs. Enrol in a BSL course. This can be done online, but is best done in person, with a qualified BSL teacher. http://www.bbc.co.uk/seehear/info/bsl.shtml is a good site to help you find onlin
