Praxis SLP Licensure Exam

Which statement BEST describes American Sign Language (ASL)?

1. ASL is completely dependent on hand movements only

2. ASL is dependent on direction, but not speed, of movement

3. ASL utilizes facial expression to mark idioms

4. ASL utilizes its own grammar and syntax

The correct answer is: ASL utilizes its own grammar and syntax

American Sign Language (ASL) is a fully developed language with its own distinct grammar and syntax, separate from English and any other spoken language. This characteristic is crucial in understanding how ASL functions as an independent language. In ASL, the structure of sentences, the way verbs inflect, and the formation of questions follow a set of linguistic rules that are unique to ASL. The grammar in ASL isn’t a direct translation of English; rather, it employs its own rules for forming phrases and conveying meaning, which is essential for proficient communication among ASL users. The other statements, while they touch on aspects of ASL, do not encapsulate its essence as a language as effectively. For instance, ASL does rely on hand signs, but it also incorporates facial expressions, which are integral to conveying tone and grammatical nuances. Additionally, direction and speed of movement can be important in ASL, but they are just components of a broader linguistic system that is governed by its own grammar and syntax. Therefore, the best description captures ASL’s complexity as an independent language rather than focusing solely on its physical or expressive characteristics.