It's difficult to make an effective one-volume sign language instruction video, and past issues of VL are littered with unfavorable reviews of titles such as Learn Sign Language: 400 Words in 30 Minutes, Sign Language for Everyone (both VL-7/91), and Beginning Reading and Sign Language (VL-7/90). While neither of these new titles can compare with multi-volume sets such as Video Sign Language Course (VL-7/89) and Beginning American Sign Language Videocourse (VL-5/93), both have their individual strengths. See & Sign has the edge in a couple of different aspects: nicely produced, the program features 29 individual lessons, ranging from an introduction to deaf culture to segments on directional verbs and fractions. The emphasis here is not word quantity, per se, but context: individual chapters cover facial expressions, meeting others, various parts of speech (verbs, pronouns, prepositions), colors, numbers, time indicators, and more. Instead of merely pointing out the sign for "run," let's say, instructor David S. Bush lets viewers know that signing the word depends on the context in which it is used (such as "race," "gotta go," or "I need a new pair of nylons.") An excellent introduction to ASL. [Note: this is being offered in both SP-recorded and EP-recorded modes, so make sure to specify SP in an order.]Made on a much lower budget, The World of Sign Language features instructor Sherry R. Clifton taking viewers through 10 individual lessons, each of which includes between 25-35 words and a set of practice sentences. In addition, the program offers segments on holidays and the months. Covering some 345 words, the program's lessons build from general to more specific terms. Clifton is a good instructor, the price is exceptionally low (which somewhat offsets the low-budget look), and the program accomplishes what it sets out to do: provide a working vocabulary to the viewer interested in beginning ASL.See & Sign is highly recommended. The World of Sign Language is recommended for those without similar fare and those who need additional videos in the subject area. (R. Pitman)
See & Sign; The World Of Sign Language
(1994) 105 min. $29.95. Harmony House Video. PPR. Color cover. Vol. 9, Issue 4
See & Sign; The World Of Sign Language
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