Read My Lips: A Closer Look at Mouth Morphemes
Master the Art of Mouth Morphemes
Mouth morphemes are one of the most misunderstood and underdeveloped areas of ASL fluency. They are not optional add-ons. They carry meaning, modify movement, and shape clarity.
This two-part live webinar offers a focused, practical analysis of how mouth morphemes function in ASL. We will examine how they modify adjectives and verbs, interact with classifiers, affect intensity and size, and shift meaning in subtle but powerful ways.
Through side-by-side examples, guided breakdowns, and real language use, you will strengthen both comprehension and production.
This webinar is conducted entirely in ASL.
Presented By
Jason Gervase
Instructor
I’m Jason Gervase, a native of sunny Scottsdale, Arizona, where I was born Deaf and raised by a Deaf mother. I attended Phoenix Day School for the Deaf for five years before my educational journey led me elsewhere. Along the way, I’ve lived in diverse places such as New York, Italy, and Mexico. Holding a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Arizona State University, I now call Tucson my home.
Since 2010, I’ve dedicated myself to teaching American Sign Language. This journey has brought me to the University of Arizona, where I serve as a Principal Lecturer, and to the Siena School of Liberal Arts in Italy, where I contribute as a Professor. My teachings in ASL and Deaf Culture reach beyond the traditional classroom, extending to students from all walks of life.
In the summer of 2021, I took a leap and started ASL Pinnacle. My aim was simple: to provide a welcoming space for anyone eager to master ASL, without the demands of formal college-level courses.
Languages are my passion. In addition to ASL and English, I’m fluent in Italian, Italian Sign Language, Spanish, and Portuguese. My love for languages stems from my travels and deep commitment to cultural connection and understanding.
When the teaching cap’s off, and I’m not jet-setting, you’ll usually find me cuddled up with my dogs, experimenting in the kitchen, and indulging in good coffee, books, and bold ideas.
Alex Lynch
Instructor
I’m Alex Lynch, the Director of the American Sign Language, Deaf Studies, and Educational Interpreting program at the University of Arizona. A native ASL user, I attended the New York School for the Deaf at Fanwood and Model Secondary School for the Deaf before continuing my education. My journey in ASL education began in 2007 with community ASL classes, and I’ve remained committed to strengthening ASL education, expanding access to Deaf Studies, and supporting the next generation of interpreters.
I’ve been teaching ASL at the university level since 2011, with experience at the University of Arizona, the University of Vermont, and Middlebury College. Along the way, I pursued an MBA from the University of Arizona, which included studying in Vienna, Austria, where I developed working proficiency in Austrian Sign Language. I am now pursuing a Ph.D. in Higher Education, focusing my research on accessibility, sense of belonging, and institutional responsibility in supporting Deaf and hard of hearing students.
When I’m not in the classroom or researching, you’ll likely find me exploring vegan cuisine, brewing, or spending time with my life partner and our dog, Winnie.
What's included?
- Two live 60-minute instructional sessions
- Detailed linguistic breakdowns and real examples
- Visual slides to support learning
- Access to the full recording after the event
- Certificate of Completion
Please note that if registering for CEUs, filling out a form at the end of each session is required.
Dates & Times
- Mouth Morphemes – Part 1 – Saturday, May 16, 2026
- Mouth Morphemes – Part 2 – Sunday, May 17, 2026
Both sessions are from 10:00–11:00 AM Pacific/Arizona Time (11:00 AM–12:00 PM MDT / 12:00–1:00 PM CDT / 1:00–2:00 PM EDT)
Who should attend?
ASL Students ✅
Interpreting Students ✅
Working Professional ✅
Cost
Registration includes both live sessions, recording access, and a certificate of completion.
- Standard: $30
- RID CEUs: $40 (0.2 CEUs)
Requirements
- Please use a laptop or desktop computer only – phones and tablets are not permitted to ensure full access to Zoom features.
- Download the Zoom app (free) before joining. Do not use the web version, as it limits viewing and chat functionality.
- Both presenters will be on the same screen and we will be sharing slides, so we recommend using side-by-side speaker mode or full-screen mode to follow along comfortably.
Refund & Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations made on or before May 9, 2026 are eligible for a refund minus a $10 processing fee.
No refunds will be issued after May 9, 2026.
Limited Spots Available! Sign up early to secure your seat.
Deadline to Register: May 9, 2025

