Below is a sample ASL syllabus suitable for use in a traditional (non-hybrid / not-online) college-level ASL 1 course.
Syllabus "ASL 1"
Course:
Instructor:
Email:
Office hours:
Course Description:
Students will learn basic vocabulary and grammar of American Sign Language. Upon
completion of this course, students will be able to exchange basic information
about themselves and their families such as their names, where they live, and
their interests. Through out-of-class readings, in-class discussions and
demonstrations, and experiences within the deaf community, students are exposed
to elements of the deaf culture and community. Therefore, there is a "NO-VOICE"
policy for this class. When you step in to the classroom you are expected to not
use your voice.
Required Materials:
Signing Naturally Level 1 Units 1-6
Not Required:
Cell phones, voiced communication, or electronic devices (during class).
Communication Policy:
Allowed methods of communication include sign, mime, gestures, and other
non-voice communication methods. Write notes if needed. This practice provides
experience as to how the Deaf communicate, and assists you in learning ASL.
Please respect the signing environment and use ASL (and not your voice) to
communicate your instructor and classmates during class.
Attendance:
Attendance and participation is CRITICAL and greatly influences your
comprehension and speed in learning the language. This class forms a small
community and your effort impacts the success of the group. Much of the work in
this course is done in class. Please make every effort to come to class ready to
learn and participate. Learning ASL is a progressive process therefore missing a
class makes it difficult for you to catch up with other students. Your
participation and enthusiastic involvement will help you learn and succeed with
ASL.
Deaf Event:
Attend one out-of-class event or activity in the Deaf community and submit a
typed paper after the event that summarizes your experience. Include who you
met, what you learned, either positive or negative, and any comments you would
like to add. Attach a picture of yourself at an identifying landmark or aspect
of the Deaf Event. Go to www.norcalcenter.org for upcoming events. Deadline is
April 27th for the paper.
Pop Quizzes:
There are 6 pop quizzes and 2 cumulative examinations and 1 final examination
taken in class during the semester. Each pop quiz covers units you've previously
viewed. The instructor will sign a phrase that a student will need to write
down. The two cumulative examinations will include questions from the objectives
in the units.
Individual ASL Reviews:
For the individual ASL review students will create a script of signing phrases
that represent the vocabulary and phrases covered in the units and will then
sign those vocabulary and phrases to the instructor. Each student will draw a
lottery number for their allotted day and time to have their signing reviewed by
the teacher.
Cumulative Examinations:
These are receptive tests in which the instructor signs various vocabulary or
phrases and the student writes what is being signed.
Final Exam:
The Final exam will be a cumulative receptive exam. The instructor will sign and
the students will write down what is being signed.
Grading:
Deaf Event: 1 @ 40 pts = 40
Pop Quizzes: 6 @ 10 pts = 60
Individual ASL reviews: 2 @ 50 pts = 100
Two Cumulative Examinations: 2 @ 50 pts = 100
Final examination: 1 @ 100 PTS = 100
Total Possible points: = 400
Make ups:
You may miss one quiz or exam (other than the final exam) without penalty. The
score will be replaced by applying the percentage you get on your Final exam to
the possible score of the missed quiz or exam.
Extra Credit:
You may earn 40 extra credit points by attending an extra Deaf Event and
submitting a summary paper (and photo).
Schedule:
JAN 25 First day of class/Unit 1
JAN 27 Unit 1
FEB 1 Unit 1
FEB 3 Unit 1
FEB 8 Unit 2
FEB 10 Unit 2
FEB 15 Unit 2
FEB 17 Unit 2
FEB 22 Unit 3
FEB 24 Unit 3
FEB 29 Unit 3
MAR 2 Unit 3
MAR 7 Review First Examination
MAR 9 First Examination
MAR 14 Individual ASL Unit 1-3 Review
MAR 16 Individual ASL Unit 1-3 Review
MAR 21 Spring Recess (No class)
MAR 23 Spring Recess (No class)
MAR 28 Unit 4
MAR 30 Unit 4
APR 4 Unit 4
APR 6 Unit 4
APR 11 Unit 5
APR 13 Unit 5
APR 18 Unit 5
APR 20 Unit 6
APR 25 Unit 6
APR 27 Unit 6 and Deaf Activity paper
MAY 2 Review Second Examination
MAY 4 Second Examination
May 9 Individual ASL Unit 4-6 Review
May 11 Individual ASL Unit 4-6 Review
TBA Final Examination
Prepare for each class by reviewing the vocabulary, phrases and videos for each
unit. Most of class time will be used for reviewing and practicing the
vocabulary signs and phrases learned in each unit. Come prepared to have
constant conversations in ASL with other students.
Have fun!