ASL Stories Signed by Different Users of ASL

Problem:

This school year, I have several Hispanic students who are hard of hearing. Predominately, the language spoken at home is Spanish. The students were also exposed to English as a second language while enrolled in a regular education (hearing) first grade classroom for one year. These hard of hearing students, however, are limited in both Spanish and English because they are spoken languages. Prior to the students enrolling in our Deaf Education program, they had little to no experience with American Sign Language (ASL). My goal is to give all students an unrestricted path to developing language.

Solution:

The following, are some of the steps I have taken in my classroom to help students develop an unrestricted language. When students enter the Deaf Education program, they are integrated into a signing program. In the beginning, signs are supported with speech. However, due to their hearing loss, any language delivered by speech will be limited. Because ASL is an unrestricted visual language, the students will have the opportunity to express themselves in a variety of ways, which include conveying complex thoughts and ideas, as well as emotions and feelings.

My solutions to presenting ASL:

-ASL stories signed by different users of ASL.

-Fairytales

-ASL signed books on tape.

-ASL videotapes

-Reading - using bridges to explain English phrases

-When the student signs a question, I repeat their question back to them and respond modeling

correct ASL grammar.

-When I am working one on one with a student, I strive to match the student’s mode of

communication, while subtly introducing ASL. The students feel more comfortable, and thus

will be less likely to become frustrated during the teaching process.

Impact:

By using a video dairy I have seen great improvements in the students’ ASL vocabulary and grammar structure. The students have developed more proficient language skills through their involvement in the learning process presented in the classroom. There have been great changes in their behavior as well as their attitudes toward learning. These Hispanic students now have a greater confidence in themselves, their work and most importantly, their communication with peers.

Misty Hall

Tulsa Public Schools