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ASL Idioms and Advanced concepts

4.9 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 10 ratings
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Tara Adams

In these 9 lectures you will learn over 90 ASL Idioms/advanced concepts that are rarely found in dictionaries or taught in most ASL classes.  Learning these concepts will greatly improve both your expressive and receptive skills.  These signs are often used by native ASL signers and are often not understood by even advanced ASL students.  Learning these signs will also help your signing become more "Deaf-like".  They are also tremendously helpful for ASL interpreters in training.

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What's inside

Learning objective

Asl idioms/advanced concepts.

Syllabus

ASL Idioms
Lesson 1
Lesson 2
Lesson 3
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Focuses on idioms and advanced concepts, which are essential for achieving fluency and a deeper understanding of the language
Aims to improve expressive and receptive skills, which are critical for effective communication in ASL
Helps learners' signing become more "Deaf-like", suggesting a focus on cultural nuances and authentic language use
Beneficial for ASL interpreters in training, indicating the course covers material relevant to professional development
Covers concepts rarely found in dictionaries or taught in most classes, implying unique and valuable content
May require learners to already possess an advanced understanding of ASL before taking this course

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Reviews summary

Asl idioms and advanced concepts overview

This course on ASL Idioms and Advanced Concepts is designed to take learners beyond standard ASL vocabulary and grammar, focusing on idiomatic expressions and advanced concepts frequently used by native ASL signers. Across nine lectures, it aims to teach over 90 such concepts, promising to significantly improve both expressive and receptive skills. The material is intended to be valuable for those seeking to make their signing more "Deaf-like" and is particularly highlighted as helpful for ASL interpreters in training, covering content often rarely found in dictionaries or typical classes.
Covers material not easily found elsewhere.
"I've looked in dictionaries, these signs aren't there."
"Finding advanced ASL resources can be hard."
"Hoping this really delivers on unique, useful signs."
Specially designed for interpreter training.
"The description said it helps interpreters, so I'm taking it for work."
"Advanced concepts are a must-have for interpreting."
"I need to recognize signs not found in standard dictionaries."
Aims for signing that's "Deaf-like".
"Making my signing more 'Deaf-like' is my goal."
"Understanding native signer nuances is crucial."
"I hope this course helps me bridge the cultural gap."
Focuses on idiomatic expressions.
"I want to learn signs that go beyond the basics."
"Idioms are key to sounding more natural in any language."
"This course specifically covers ASL idioms which is what I need."
Teaches over 90 concepts quickly.
"Ninety concepts in nine lectures? That's ten per lecture!"
"I worry it might be too fast-paced to absorb everything."
"I expect to spend a lot of time practicing after each lesson."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in ASL Idioms and Advanced concepts with these activities:
Review Basic ASL Grammar
Strengthen your understanding of fundamental ASL grammar to better grasp the nuances of idioms and advanced concepts.
Show steps
  • Review sentence structure in ASL.
  • Practice constructing simple sentences.
  • Identify common grammatical errors.
Review 'A Basic Course in American Sign Language'
Reinforce your foundational ASL knowledge by revisiting a comprehensive introductory textbook.
View Learning American Sign Language DVD to... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read key chapters on grammar and vocabulary.
  • Complete the exercises and quizzes.
  • Focus on areas where you feel less confident.
Create Flashcards for ASL Idioms
Solidify your understanding of ASL idioms by creating flashcards with visual representations and example sentences.
Show steps
  • Select 10-15 idioms from the course.
  • Create a visual representation for each idiom.
  • Write example sentences using each idiom.
  • Review the flashcards regularly.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice ASL Idioms with a Partner
Improve your expressive and receptive skills by practicing ASL idioms with a fellow student.
Show steps
  • Find a partner who is also learning ASL.
  • Take turns signing idioms and interpreting them.
  • Provide feedback to each other.
Record Yourself Using ASL Idioms
Enhance your expressive skills and identify areas for improvement by recording yourself using ASL idioms in context.
Show steps
  • Choose 5-7 idioms from the course.
  • Write a short story or dialogue incorporating the idioms.
  • Record yourself signing the story or dialogue.
  • Review the recording and identify areas for improvement.
Read 'The Linguistics of American Sign Language: An Introduction'
Deepen your understanding of ASL's linguistic structure to better appreciate the nuances of idioms.
View Advances in the Sign Language Development of... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read chapters on ASL grammar and syntax.
  • Take notes on key linguistic concepts.
  • Relate these concepts to the idioms learned in the course.
Tutor Beginner ASL Students
Reinforce your knowledge of ASL idioms and advanced concepts by mentoring beginner students.
Show steps
  • Volunteer to tutor beginner ASL students.
  • Incorporate idioms into your lessons.
  • Explain the meaning and usage of each idiom.

Career center

Learners who complete ASL Idioms and Advanced concepts will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Sign Language Interpreter
A sign language interpreter facilitates communication between deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals and hearing individuals. This role requires a deep understanding of both sign language and the culture of the Deaf community. This course, which focuses on advanced ASL idioms and concepts, can greatly improve an interpreter's ability to accurately and fluently convey nuanced information. The course specifically targets concepts frequently used by native signers, helping interpreters to achieve a more natural and culturally appropriate communication style. The unique focus on idioms and advanced topics makes this course particularly beneficial for interpreters in training seeking higher levels of proficiency.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sign Language Interpreter
Educational Interpreter
An educational interpreter works in schools or universities, providing sign language interpretation for deaf or hard of hearing students. This role demands a high level of linguistic competence to accurately convey complex academic material and discussions. This course on ASL idioms and advanced concepts directly addresses the need for strong expressive and receptive skills in educational settings. The course’s focus on signs used by native signers will help an educational interpreter to effectively render idiomatic expressions and communicate at a level that closely matches the linguistic abilities of the Deaf students they serve. This course may be particularly helpful for interpreters who seek to ensure a student doesn’t miss subtleties of meaning or interpretation.
See salaries and explore the career path for Educational Interpreter
Sign Language Instructor
A sign language instructor teaches ASL to students of varying levels, from beginners to advanced learners. Thorough knowledge of the language, culture, and unique linguistic features are essential for effective instruction. The advanced ASL idioms and concepts taught in this course provide a valuable resource for instructors looking to enhance students' linguistic skills. The course’s exploration of concepts used by native signers assists an instructor in creating more natural and authentic ASL teaching environments and curriculum. This course can help instructors train future signers and interpreters, who, like themselves, will benefit from this unique linguistic perspective.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sign Language Instructor
Video Relay Service Interpreter
A Video Relay Service interpreter provides remote sign language interpretation using video technology. This role requires excellent communication skills and a strong grasp of a range of ASL vocabulary and grammar, including nuanced idiomatic expressions. This course, which examines advanced concepts and idioms used by native signers, provides valuable insight for VRS interpreters looking to refine their real-time interpretation skills to reflect more natural communication patterns. This course's particular focus on concepts outside basic ASL curricula may be especially helpful in conveying complex or unexpected language in natural and expressive ways.
See salaries and explore the career path for Video Relay Service Interpreter
Community Interpreter
A community interpreter works in a variety of settings, such as healthcare, legal, or social services. The community interpreter facilitates communication between deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals and hearing individuals. This role is enhanced by an understanding of diverse communication styles and the use of idiomatic language. This course, which emphasizes idioms and advanced ASL concepts, can help further develop an interpreter’s ability to navigate complex interactions and deliver more accurate and nuanced interpretations. The focus on concepts often not taught in most ASL classes can be particularly helpful in situations in which a community interpreter encounters a diversity of signing styles.
See salaries and explore the career path for Community Interpreter
Deaf Studies Professor
A Deaf studies professor develops and teaches courses related to deaf culture, language, and history. A deep and comprehensive understanding of ASL is integral to this role. This course, which goes deeply into the idioms and advanced concepts used by native signers, supports a professor in enriching their lectures and teaching materials. The knowledge of nuanced ASL grammar and frequently used signs will help a Deaf studies professor develop and deliver more accurate and culturally relevant information to students. Therefore, this course may be useful to anyone who aspires to educate others about Deaf culture and language at the university level.
See salaries and explore the career path for Deaf Studies Professor
Sign Language Researcher
A sign language researcher studies various aspects of ASL, including its linguistic features, sociolinguistics, and cultural significance. A strong command of native sign language is essential. This course, which covers advanced ASL idioms and concepts, provides a researcher with a deeper understanding of the intricacies of the language, especially those that are rarely documented or taught in standard curricula. The course’s emphasis on how native signers use ASL helps researchers in their studies of the language's evolution and natural usage. This course may be particularly helpful for those who aspire to contribute to the growing body of knowledge about sign language.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sign Language Researcher
Communication Specialist
A communication specialist works to improve communications for an organization or group. This may involve facilitating effective communication strategies while also accounting for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. This role is supported by a strong understanding of communication and a broad familiarity with ASL. This course, which provides an introduction to advanced ASL idioms and concepts, can help a communication specialist to develop an awareness of the nuances and complexities of ASL interpretation and communication. This course may be useful for a specialist who strives to create more inclusive and effective strategies.
See salaries and explore the career path for Communication Specialist
Linguist
A linguist studies the science of language, including its structure, history, and development. This includes sign languages. A deep understanding of the nuances of a language is essential in this career. This course's emphasis on advanced ASL concepts and idioms may be useful to a linguist who aspires to research the structure and complexities of ASL, particularly the unique elements found in native signing. The course's focus on aspects of the language not found in typical curricula provides a deeper understanding. Therefore, this course may be useful for those pursuing graduate level degrees in linguistics.
See salaries and explore the career path for Linguist
Speech-Language Pathologist
A speech language pathologist works with individuals who have communication disorders. They can work with deaf or hard of hearing individuals in order to improve communication and language skills. This course on advanced idioms and concepts in ASL may be useful for a speech language pathologist who develops strategies to aid deaf or hard of hearing clients. The course content can assist in understanding the complexities of communication and language development. This course may offer insights that help a pathologist support the development of effective communication skills.
See salaries and explore the career path for Speech-Language Pathologist
Multilingual Educator
A multilingual educator works with students from diverse language backgrounds. This can often require an understanding of different languages, their cultures, and unique features. This course provides insight into the structure and linguistic depth of ASL. This course may be useful for a multilingual educator who seeks to understand different languages and use that knowledge to create inclusive learning environments. The unique focus of the course on advanced concepts and idioms can enhance the educator's understanding of the linguistic features of sign language.
See salaries and explore the career path for Multilingual Educator
Human Resources Specialist
A human resources specialist works to support the employees of a company or organization. This role requires an understanding of diversity and inclusion. This course may be useful for an HR specialist who needs to better understand how sign language contributes to the diverse communication needs within the workplace. This course, which focuses on advanced ASL idioms and concepts, can help an HR specialist improve their understanding of the requirements needed to ensure that the workplace is inclusive. This course may be useful in assisting with employee communication.
See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Specialist
Special Education Teacher
A special education teacher works with students who have disabilities or special needs. Some students may be deaf or hard of hearing. This course's content, which focuses on advanced ASL concepts and signs, can assist a special education teacher in better understanding and communicating with deaf or hard of hearing students. These idioms and advanced concepts provide a more nuanced view of the language. This course may be useful in ensuring that a special education teacher is able to teach in an inclusive environment.
See salaries and explore the career path for Special Education Teacher
Social Worker
A social worker provides support and services to individuals in need. It may be beneficial for a social worker to have insight into ASL in order to better assist deaf and hard of hearing clients. This course on ASL idioms and advanced concepts may be useful to a social worker by deepening their understanding of ASL and Deaf culture. This can help improve a social worker's ability to communicate with clients who use ASL. This course may be useful in creating a more inclusive environment for hard of hearing clients.
See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker
Software Developer
A software developer designs and develop applications. This role can involve a range of different skill sets. This course may be useful for a software developer interested in creating accessibility tools for the deaf and hard of hearing. This course, which highlights the advanced nuances of ASL, may be useful to enhance a developer's understanding of the language. This course may be particularly helpful for developers aiming to enhance assistive technology.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in ASL Idioms and Advanced concepts.
Cover image
Learning American Sign Language: Beginning &...
Save
Widely used textbook for introductory ASL courses. It provides a solid foundation in basic vocabulary, grammar, and cultural aspects of the Deaf community. Reviewing this book can help solidify your understanding of fundamental ASL principles, making it easier to learn and retain advanced concepts and idioms. It is particularly helpful for those who need a refresher on ASL basics.
Learning American Sign Language DVD to accompany...
DVD-ROM
$$$
Cover image
Advances in the Sign Language Development of Deaf...
Save
Delves into the linguistic structure of ASL, providing a deeper understanding of its grammar, phonology, and morphology. While not directly focused on idioms, it offers valuable insights into the underlying principles that govern ASL, which can enhance your comprehension of advanced concepts. This book is more valuable as additional reading to provide depth to the existing course.
Advances in the Sign Language Development of Deaf...
Hardcover
$$$$
Advances in the Sign Language Development of Deaf...
Kindle Edition
$$$$

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Rating
4.9 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
38 total mins
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Tara Adams
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Focuses on idioms and advanced concepts, which are essential for achieving fluency and a deeper understanding of the language
Aims to improve expressive and receptive skills, which are critical for effective communication in ASL
Helps learners' signing become more "Deaf-like", suggesting a focus on cultural nuances and authentic language use
Beneficial for ASL interpreters in training, indicating the course covers material relevant to professional development
Covers concepts rarely found in dictionaries or taught in most classes, implying unique and valuable content
May require learners to already possess an advanced understanding of ASL before taking this course
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