Mar 29, 2024  
2020-2021 Official General Catalog 
    
2020-2021 Official General Catalog [Archived Catalog]

ASL 120 - American Sign Language I


Introduces the fundamentals of American Sign Language (ASL) including basic vocabulary, syntax, finger spelling, and grammatical non-manual signs. Focuses on communicative competence. The Direct Experience Method is used to help students learn to sign by experiencing the use of signs directly. Develops gestural skills as a foundation for ASL enhancement. Introduces Deaf Culture and increases understanding of the Deaf Community.

Credits: 3
Hours
3 Class Hours
Course Profile
Learning Outcomes of the Course:

Upon successful completion of this course the student will be able to:

  1. Know and use the manual alphabet of American Sign Language appropriately.
  2. Master 400 basic signs, including number systems, and use them appropriately in simple conversations.
  3. Understand and begin to produce affirmative and negative statements, Yes/No and wh-questions in everyday topics such as family, daily activities, personal preference and needs.
  4. Understand and begin to use basic sentence structures, including object + subject + verb, sentences with identifying nouns, directional verbs, and verbs with classifiers.
  5. Understand and use some basic language strategies such as getting attention, handling interruptions, providing listeners with feedback, and opening and closing conversations.
  6. Have a basic understanding of Deaf Culture, including the history of Deaf people in the United States, prevalent myths and misconceptions regarding ASL and deafness.