American Sign Language
Course Syllabus
Mrs. Backer
Andover High School 2016-17
ASL 1
Email: [email protected] (best way to contact me)
Phone: 763-506-8489
AH-Connect Website: https://ahconnect.anoka.k12.mn.us/
DESCRIPTION OF COURSE
This class will focus on expressive and receptive skills in American Sign Language and an
introduction to American Deaf culture. Weekly interactive activities allow you to rehearse what
you’ve learned in class. In each unit we will be learning: Unit 1-Welcome; Unit 2-Getting
Started; Unit 3-Getting to Know You; Unit 4–Family & Friends; Unit 5-School Days.
TEXT: Master ASL! Level One by Jason E. Zinza
MATERIALS NEEDED: 3 ring binder (1 inch) with loose-leaf paper & folder
pencils, pens, highlighters
2-3 large Dry erase markers (review games)
APPROACH
Our classes are conducted in a combination of ASL and English. During teaching of ASL and
partner or group practice, students are expected to “turn off their voices” to learn and practice
ASL. Remember to keep practicing ASL outside of the classroom! Find a “signing buddy” to
sign with outside of class. You will learn the language better and become a better signer for it.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
Cultural Awareness
Students will receive written and oral information on the following topics:
Historical events and history of ASL. Students will also obtain a basic understanding of
the Deaf culture and issues
Grammatical/conversational Skills
Students will be able to introduce themselves and exchange information about themselves
in ASL. They will be able to converse about surroundings, where they live, their family and
other activities in ASL. They will also be able to give simple directions, describe others and
make requests in ASL. Students will participate in dialogues and class activities in ASL which
highlight facial expression, body language, hand shapes, eye gaze, mouth morphemes and
head movement as it is communicated in the target language, ASL.
Vocabulary Skills
Given a set of targeted vocabulary items drawn from class activities and dialogues,
students will be able to demonstrate receptive and expressive mastery for a beginner
student of ASL.
EXPECTATIONS
o BE REPECTFUL OF DEAF CULTURE: VOICES OFF during signing activities
o Be Responsible: Arrive on time for class: Every 3rd tardy will result in a call
home.
o Be Prepared: Review ASL 5 days/week for 30 minutes.
o Be Ready to Learn…Make your Mark…PARTICIPATE!
o Be Honest: students who cheat on tests or assignments can expect to be reported and
to face loss of credit.
o Be Considerate: Backpacks & Purses under your desk please.
o Be Focused: No Electronics (no cell phones or I pods out during class or I will confiscate
them for the remainder of the period).
o Be Aware: All school rules & policies will be followed.
GRADING
Interpersonal: 10% of your grade.
Answering when called upon, attentiveness to teacher and to other students.
Active participation in group activities and paired practice.
Practicing ASL with “voices off” in respect of the Deaf and their culture.
Assignments & Unit Quizzes 20% of your grade.
Assignments include homework, journal, other papers/projects assigned.
Make-up missed Quizzes within a week (before school) or you will
receive a zero.
IF YOU’RE ABSENT IT’S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to check-in with your
partner for any missed homework assignments.
Record absent date on homework & turn-in.
Homework is DUE when the bell rings to receive full credit.
Expressive: 35% of your grade.
This includes dialogues. Practicing dialogues and other expressive activities is
essential in earning a good grade. All presentations/dialogues (memorized) will
be done in front of the class. There will be at least one dialogue per unit plus
additional presentations.
Receptive: 35% of your grade.
This includes the tests that are given for each unit.
Tests will include vocabulary, grammar, sentences, stories & deaf culture.
Make-up missed tests within a week (before school) or you will receive
a zero.
Syllabus Signature Sheet
As the student, I have read the course syllabus and am aware of the course objectives and
expectations, grading policy, and cheating policy. I am responsible for adhering to the
expectations and I am aware of the rewards/consequences associated with my decisions.
_______________________________________________ _____________
Printed Name of Student Date
_______________________________________________
Signature of Student
As the parent/guardian of the above named student, I have read the course syllabus and am
aware of the expectations of my student.
________________________________________________ _____________
Signature of Parent/Guardian Date
Phone #______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Email address (for future contact regarding your child)
Return to Mrs. Backer by _____________________ for 5 points
