R. Allen Gardner

The First Signs of Washoe is a 1974 documentary from the PBS series Nova that chronicles Project Washoe, an experiment raising a wild-born chimpanzee using American Sign Language. The film demonstrates how Washoe acquired spontaneous signing and conceptual combinations, challenging the traditional scientific consensus that language is uniquely human.

PBS' premier science series helps viewers of all ages explore the science behind the headlines. Along the way, NOVA demystifies science and technology, and highlights the people involved in scientific pursuits.