Analyzes the linguistic structures of American Sign Language and English, and examines the differences between signed, written, and spoken languages, as well as gestural and communication systems.
Goals, Topics, and Objectives
ASL-137 is designed to introduce students to the basic linguistic structures of American Sign Language and English and how to think critically about language.
- Defining language
- Linguistic structure and language modalities
- Aspects of language
- Communication vs. language
- Signed languages
- Literacy for Deaf or hard of hearing students
- English vs. ASL structures
- Vocabulary
- Evaluate what makes American Sign Language a true language
- Describe the linguistic structures of English and American Sign Language (ASL)
- Identify common features of signed language syntax, phonology, morphology, and semantics
- Explain the linguistic and structural differences between communication and language
- Categorize various signed languages and analyze their history
- Understand how English and ASL linguistic issues in the classroom impact Deaf and Hard of Hearing students
- Analyze how ASL and English interact
- Consider ASL and English vocabulary interpretation and translation strategies
Note: A grade of C- is not transferrable and is not accepted by some programs at HFC.
Assessment and Requirements
Assessment of academic achievement will be identified and implemented by the class instructor. Methods will include, but not be limited to:
- Participation
- Weekly/regular quizzes
- Homework assignments
- Chapter/unit tests
- Oral/receptive-expressive exam(s)
- Midterm/final exam
All sections of this level will use a textbook (and any accompanying materials) selected by the course coordinator and approved by the World Languages Committee.