Scuba divers use their hands to communicate underwater, largely out of fear that cruel swordfish will make fun of their dry-land accents. Thwart the mockery of derisive swimmers with today's Groupon: for $49, you get four introductory group sign-language classes at Signing Basics in Tenleytown (a $100 value).

Signing Basics gathers students in groups of up to 15 to explore the nuances of meaning and movement in American Sign Language. During the course of the one-hour lessons, which begin April 1, fingers will flutter and palms will dance through the alphabet as well as basic idioms and phrases, leaving the lips and vocal chords with an unsettling feeling of replaceability. Handouts, homework, and recommendations for further study facilitate learning outside of class, ensuring that students maintain a steady momentum through the class sequence. Instructors and students will agree upon a meeting time in advance. Groupon customers will receive a 10% discount on further private lessons if their initial classes pique interest, further empowering left and right hands to share their feelings with each other and gossip about ungainly feet.

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