A student researching sign language has taken the following notes:
• American Sign Language (ASL) is a complete, natural language • It has its own grammar distinct from English • ASL uses hand shapes, movements, and facial expressions • Approximately 500,000 people in North America use ASL • Sign languages vary by country—ASL differs from British Sign Language
The student wants to explain that ASL is a distinct language, not coded English. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes?
Approximately 500,000 people in North America communicate using American Sign Language.
American Sign Language is a complete, natural language with its own grammar distinct from English, using hand shapes, movements, and facial expressions.
Sign languages vary by country—American Sign Language differs significantly from British Sign Language.
ASL communicators use hand shapes, movements, and facial expressions to convey meaning.
Correct Answer: B
Choice B. Complete language with distinct grammar shows ASL is not coded English.