British Sign Language (BSL)

british sign language bsl

British Sign Language is my favorite second signed language. BSL is the sign language used in the United Kingdom (UK). I get tingles every time I see their two-handed manual alphabet.

BSL is related to Australian Sign Language (Auslan) and New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL). These three signed languages descended from the same parent language and are part of the BANZSL language family and share the same manual alphabet.

Even though the United States and the United Kingdom both speak English predominantly, BSL and American Sign Language (ASL) are very different. As you may know by my comments, BSL uses two hands for their alphabet while ASL uses one.

BSL also has many dialects that vary region by region. For example, signs in Scotland may not be understood in southern England. Some signs are even different from city to city. An example of this would be the Manchester number signs.

I am honestly completely fascinated with the two-handed alphabet. After using a one-handed alphabet for so many years, learning the two-handed one is so much fun!

The BSL Alphabet

by soniahollis

If you want to learn some BSL, we recommend these resources:

DVDs

Learn British Sign Language
(The Easy Way, Intro, Level 1, & Level 2)
The Easy Way - Learn British Sign Language The EASY Way! is the first DVD in the series created by Sonia Hollis a qualified sign language interpreter (MRSLI). It covers the whole Level 1 BSL curriculum and spans over 2 DVD's lasting over 2 hours.
Intro - With An Introduction To British Sign Language you will discover what British Sign Language (BSL) is and who uses it. You will be taught how to fingerspell the alphabet, sign your own name and understand various names signed to you.
Level 1 - British Sign Language Level 1 takes you through the complete topics and vocabulary needed for the Level 1 in British Sign Language.
Level 2 - British Sign Language Level 2 is split into sections that covers the same topics needed for Level 2 in British Sign Language. There are sections teaching you the vocabulary, question and answers, and phrases and story receptive skills practise.

Websites

Even though you're having fun with BSL, don't forget to learn ASL too!

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