American Sign Language (ASL) is a complex visual language that is made up of hand movements, facial expressions, and gestures that can be used to communicate complex thoughts and ideas, similar to any spoken language. ASL has its own syntax and grammar and is the primary language of deaf individuals in the United States. ASL has also been used by individuals with communication disorders, developmental disabilities, or any language deficits that may interfere with spoken or receptive language. For example, children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may use some signs from ASL as a means of communication when they are unable to express their thoughts or preferences; it is important to note that using isolated “signs” is not considered ASL when it is free ...

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