Unlock the full potential of American Sign Language by mastering the art of visual depiction! This interactive workshop explores how depictions—such as constructed action, constructed dialogue, and depicting verbs—enhance language development and fluency in ASL. Participants will learn to identify and categorize depictions, understand the rules that govern their use, and apply spatial features to maximize conceptual clarity.

Through hands-on activities and modeling, we will demonstrate how depictions can “unstick English” by shifting from linear, text-based thinking to rich, visual-spatial representation. Comparisons between spoken English and ASL will highlight strategies for moving between languages effectively. Special focus will be given to applying these skills in specialized contexts, including medical interpreting, STEM concepts, storytelling, and press reporting.