How are numbers 16-19 formed in ASL?

How are numbers 16-19 formed in ASL?

• A. Begin with 10 handshape and twist outward to form the number
• B. Sign the digits individually
• C. Use an L handshape
• D. Use a diagonal motion with the palm

Answer: (A)

In ASL, numbers 16 through 19 are built from the base sign for ten. You start with the ten handshape and then twist the wrist outward to indicate the units beyond ten. That twist communicates 6, 7, 8, or 9 added to ten, so you get 16, 17, 18, and 19 without signing each digit separately. The other options don’t follow this standard teens formation pattern, which is why this approach is the correct one.

In ASL, numbers 16 through 19 are built from the base sign for ten. You start with the ten handshape and then twist the wrist outward to indicate the units beyond ten. That twist communicates 6, 7, 8, or 9 added to ten, so you get 16, 17, 18, and 19 without signing each digit separately. The other options don’t follow this standard teens formation pattern, which is why this approach is the correct one.