Suggested Age

Sign Language IA: age 11-12
Sign Language IB: age 12-13

Prerequisite

None

Purpose

American Sign Language (ASL) is the visual/gestural language used by the majority of Deaf individuals in America. The course introduces middle school/junior high school students to the grammar, vocabulary and history of ASL. Taken at a slower pace than ASL 1, this course covers half of the 1 year high-school level ASL 1 course. Students learn to communicate a variety of signed situations, working on receptive and expressive skills.

This course is designed for one-half high school foreign language credit. Each 1 hour class includes review, direct lessons using the textbook and other materials, as well as group and individual practice. Assignments include, but are not limited to, learning vocabulary and phrases, writing/translating phrases. Attendance at a community event is encouraged. At home learning and review is essential for success in the class as there will be new vocabulary weekly. Access to the internet is necessary to complete assignments.

Process

Middle School classes provide basic sign language vocabulary, conversational skills, and deaf awareness. Beginning interpreting skills are taught through the use of music, books, and other media and students are expected to apply rules from Interpreter’s Code of Ethics. There is a text required for this class.

Curriculum

Sign 1A, I, II, Required text:

     Learning American Sign Language 2nd Edition
     Tom Humphries, Carol Padden; ISB #0-205-27553-2
     Optional: accompanying DVD offered with text