By Casie Hartwell

Myth Deaf people cannot talk.

Fact Some deaf people can talk (I am hard of hearing and I can talk). Some can use words or long sentences. Others use speech for all communications with hearing people. Still others who do not speak at all, but prefer to communicate in writing or signs.

Myth All deaf people can read lips.

Fact Not all deaf people are good lip readers. Some deaf people can communicate with hearing people only by writing or gestures.

Myth Deaf people can hear and understand if you talk loudly.

Fact Talking loudly usually doe not help deaf people understand what you are saying.