Sign Language 101

By Priyanka Mehta

September 22, 2022

Observing International Day of Sign Languages

A form of communication using signs instead of spoken words primarily used by people who are hard of hearing.

Indian Sign Language (ISL) has its own grammar and syntax.  Explore basic words you can learn in ISL.

What is Sign Language?

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Thomas Edison was the first person to popularise answering the phone with a “Hello.” However the inventor of the telephone, Alexander Graham Bell, wanted to use “ahoy” instead.

In ancient Greece, happiness was thought of as an external force, more like "good fortune." It was something that a person had no control over.

The word learn is derived from Proto-Indo-European *leys-, and later from Proto-Germanic *lizaną.

Practice came to life in the 15th century, derived from English through French, Latin, and Greek. When someone practices something, they do it often, as a habit.

Francis Bacon coined the term "science", but the word came into common usage around the time western world emerged.

The concept of engineering came to existence in ancient times as humans devised fundamental inventions such as the pulley, lever, and wheel.

Tips to Learn  Sign Language

Set your language goals

Learn common vocabulary

Practice speaking in sign

Connect with a sign speaker

Consume sign-based media

Use the new language daily