Emily Glenn-Smith
MA, Sign Language Education
ASLTA, Nationally Certified
ASL Song
“MA SLT Anthem”
Songs in ASL are comprised of a multiplicity of elements such as style, rhythm, beat, and body movement. The song sample shown here follows what is called a “cadence” sign pattern. This is an inflection, or a rolling motion following the beats 1,2 – 1,2,3. This structure flows very smoothly with the prosody used in the production of ASL.
A brief history: Prior to 1950’s, these percussion types of songs were common. During the 1950’s, 60’s, 70’s, hearing aids, television, and rock and roll became more prevalent and soon to follow came the rise of interpreted songs. With these changes in technology and culture, the use of cadence songs has been diminished.
ASL song created by Suzan Colon, Justin Jackerson, Emily Glenn-Smith & Jaclyn Vincent.
Video produced by Justin Jackerson
Narrative of Personal Experience (NPE)
"A Rocky Experience"
A personal narrative is a technique storytellers use to share their experiences based on a first-person point of view. The stories serve as a way of helping people to make meaning of the social patterns that occurs in their community.
Narratives about Deaf experiences emphasize the inherent value of sign language, how it builds a community, and common social patterns shown in Deaf culture.