Move to the Signs: ASL Action Game

Students learn six basic American Sign Language (ASL) signs and use them in a silent Simon Says and a tag game where every command is given without voice. Students build visual attention, nonverbal communication, and inclusion of Deaf classmates.

How to play

1. In a circle, spend 3 minutes teaching six signs with illustrated cards: run, walk, stop, jump, sit, and switch. A Deaf student who is comfortable can lead this.
2. Silent Simon Says (2 minutes): the teacher signs and everyone follows while moving around the gym; on "stop," freeze.
3. In groups of 5, each student leads for 30 seconds using only signs until everyone has led (3 minutes).
4. Silent tag (5 minutes): three taggers wear pinnies while the teacher signs how to move. A tagged player takes the pinnie. On "sit," nobody can tag; on "switch," taggers hand their pinnie to someone else.
5. Wrap-up (3 minutes): each group creates a four-sign sequence and another group decodes and performs it.

Rules

• No talking or shouting: communicate only with signs.
• Missing a change never makes you out; just adjust.
• Tag with a gentle touch on the shoulder.
• Look ahead when running.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: each sign has a wheelchair version (go fast, turn, stop), and the student can be the sign leader.
• Deaf or hard of hearing: leaders always face the group in good light, and the Deaf student is the group's expert.
• Shyness: students who do not want to lead alone co-lead with a partner.

Learning goals

• Use the hands and body to communicate.
• Respond quickly to visual signals.
• Appreciate sign language as a tool for inclusion.

Equipment for a class of 25

• cardstock: 6
• pinnies: 3

Teacher tip

Check each sign in a reputable ASL dictionary before class. Stand on a raised or clear spot so everyone can see you.

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