American Sign Language
Instructor:
Renee Diggs
Description:
This course will be a basic introduction to American Sign Language (ASL). Students will learn basic vocabulary, grammar, and culturally appropriate uses of ASL through natural, everyday conversational situations. The overall goals of ASL I are for students to understand basic dialogues on various everyday topics of conversation, feel comfortable conversing in the language, and be aware of Deaf culture and the general rules within the community.
The instruction will vary each class period. We will learn basic ASL grammar, drill vocabulary words, practice fingerspelling, and use games to reinforce learning. Students will take quizzes and tests to measure their comprehension and skills. By the end of the first semester, students will only use ASL to communicate in class with the teacher and their peers.
ASL is a visual/gestural language with a rich culture and heritage. To progress, students must become comfortable using their bodies and “listening” with their eyes. To encourage and foster the development of these skills, voicing (speaking English) in the classroom will be minimal. Students will participate in classroom activities and discussions. Students will demonstrate respect for the language, culture, and their fellow students as they begin using ASL in the classroom. Attendance is ESSENTIAL for success and will be part of the overall grade.
Students will be evaluated regularly through tests, exams, and class discussions. Students should have monitored access to the internet. This course fulfills the requirements for one credit in a foreign language.
Requirements:
2-3 hours of weekly homework is required. At-home video assignments and vocabulary activities will allow the student to rehearse material learned in class. Homework will include:
Fingerspelling drills
Video comprehension
ocabulary review (cumulative)
GoReact Assignments
Reading on Deaf Culture and the Deaf Community
Reading response writing activities
Additional ASL-based assignments
By the end of the first semester, students will be expected to use ASL to communicate in class with the instructor and their peers. The students will practice their command of the language in front of their peers during assigned class time. Students will take a comprehensive exam at the end of each semester containing a mixture of expressive and receptive ASL.
Prerequisites:
Students should possess a strong command of the English language.
Grades:
Bell Ringer Activities – 10%
Class participation – 10%
Homework Assignments – 30%
Tests – 20%
Semester exams – 30%
Late work will be accepted according to the MRA Late Homework policies outlined in the handbook. Upon successful completion of this course a student will earn 1 Foreign Language credit toward graduation.
Level of Parental Involvement
High School:
5 hours independently per day, 1 hour working with a parent per day
Texts:
El Deafo by Cece Bell
Deaf Child Crossing by Marlee Matlin
Start ASL: A Student’s Guide to the Deaf Community
Fingerspelled Word Recognition through Rapid Serial Visual Presentation (RSVP)
Supplies:
Composition Notebook
Pencil
GoReact Account* (provided for full-time students)
Access to computer and internet for video review and practice
Access to a printer to print out any assignments needed
*Students should have an account with GoReact for homework assignments. Students will be given reading assignments from various sources provided by the instructor. Students will receive handouts periodically provided by the instructor.
