American Sign Language 1.A: Introduction (Grade 10)
View complete Learning Outcomes for this course: American Sign Language 10
ASL 1.A is a four credit course that will focus on the understanding of the Deaf/deaf culture and community, as well as a general introduction to this beautifully visual language. The social beliefs, history, experiences, and treatment of people in this community are focused on throughout the course, as well as the engagement of students to develop an understanding of shared experiences, perspectives, and worldviews through a cultural lens.
Students will be introduced to vocabulary and simple sentences that will allow them to start communicating right away, and they will develop an appreciation for the American Sign Language as its own, rich and unique language.
Module 1: The Basics
- Definitions for American Sign Language and the unique community
- Learning the alphabet
- Counting and greeting in ASL
- Learning about the origins of ASL
Module 2: Let’s Introduce Ourselves!
- Understanding the difference between Deaf, deaf, and Hard of Hearing
- Counting continued
- Introductions and appropriate interaction behaviours
Module 3: Express Yourself: Feelings, Colours and Questions
- Learning the elements and differences of signs
- Signing emotions
- Asking and answering yes/no and “wh-” questions
Module 4: School’s in Session
- Understanding the “methods debate” in Deaf education
- Asking questions and understanding how to ask them
- The basics of sentences
- Appreciation for the Deaf community
Assessment:
Assessment for this course is based on a combination of written and video activities, online discussions, quizzes, and tests that are broken down by module.
| First Assignment | 10% |
| Module 1: The Basics | 20% |
| Module 2: Let’s Introduce Ourselves! | 20% |
| Module 3: Express Yourself | 20% |
| Module 4: School’s in Session | 20% |
| Midterm Test | 5% |
| Final Exam | 5% |
Required materials:
- computer with reliable internet access
- word processing and slideshow creation programs
- cell phone, tablet, or computer camera with access to sound and video recording
- two people (family, friends, stuffed animal etc to lead a conversation with in videos