American Sign Language 2

American Sign Language 2 – Matthew Road Academy
Instructor:

Claryce Cook

Description:

This course will review and apply American Sign Language (ASL) vocabulary, grammar, sentence structure, fingerspelling, and Deaf culture learned in ASL I.  Students will learn how to describe people and things, how to make requests, how to describe places, state opinions, and discuss plans and goals. Students will learn to communicate with Deaf people by using more advanced phrases and vocabulary.

The instruction will vary each class period. We will learn Intermediate ASL grammar, drill vocabulary words, numbers and fingerspelling, use games to reinforce learning, and tests will be given to evaluate the student’s comprehension and skills. Students will be expected to use ASL to articulate their thoughts using correct ASL grammar.

ASL is a visual/gestural language with a rich culture and heritage. Students will be expected to participate in classroom activities and discussions held in English and in American Sign Language. Students will demonstrate a respect for the language, culture, and their fellow students as they use ASL within the classroom setting. Attendance is ESSENTIAL for success and will be graded.

Students will be evaluated regularly through tests, exams, and class discussions. Students should have monitored access to the internet.

Requirements:

Students will be required to memorize the alphabet, numbers, vocabulary words, and grammar in ASL. New vocabulary words will be introduced at the beginning of each unit. Vocabulary words are cumulative, and students will be expected to build their knowledge of the ASL material. Each week there will be homework that needs to be completed on GoReact. By the end of the first semester, students will be expected to use ASL to communicate accurate descriptions of people and things they see, be able to make requests, and accurately describe places. The students will have the opportunity to demonstrate their command of the language in front of their peers during assigned class time. A comprehensive exam will be given at the end of each semester. Each test and exam will have a mixture of expressive and receptive ASL.  Throughout the school year there will be two books that the students will read to learn more about Deaf Culture. There are review quizzes related to the books that will be assigned. Throughout the semester there will be deaf individuals that will be guests in the class to give students the opportunity to interact with native language users, ask questions, and learn deaf culture from deaf individuals.

Prerequisites:

Students should possess a strong command of the English language and completion of American Sign Language I.

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
M,W,F work

High School:
5 hours independently per day, 1 hour working with a parent per day

Texts:

“A Loss For Words” by Lou Ann Walker
“A Man Without Words” by Oliver Sacks

Supplies:

½” 3 Ring Binder
Notebook Paper
Pencil
Mini White Board
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.

Other Requirements:

None

Additional courses offered at MRA