American Sign Language (ASL) is a visual language comprising specific gestures (signs), handshapes and facial expressions. The signs follow grammatical rules. It is the official language of the Deaf community in Canada. Deaf people have their own culture. In the past, course standards did not include learning both ASL and Deaf culture.
What is Signing Naturally?
SIGNING NATURALLY is a standardized ASL curriculum that was created and developed at Vista Community College in Berkeley, California approximately 20 years ago. At that college, three ASL instructors, all first language users (two deaf and one hearing) developed this new approach, which teaches grammar and culture as well as sign language. The approach is based on the language's communicative use and focuses on natural and interpersonal communication needs.
How does it work?
SIGNING NATURALLY brings ASL to you via videotext and workbook, as well as classroom instruction. Enrolment in classes is limited to 14 students. Role-play is one of the teaching methods used in class. The videotext and workbook supplement and reinforce classroom instruction. They provide you with a way to review, practise, and retain what you have learned in class. A "no voice" style is used, which reinforces the student's learning experience.
What do I learn?
Students first learn basic everyday communication: exchanging information, identifying others, making requests, giving reasons, giving opinions, giving simple directions. Topics centre on personal information and the immediate environment. The three levels of SIGNING NATURALLY will offer you an extensive look at communicating in ASL.
How long does it take to learn?
As in learning any language, it takes a great deal of time, energy and commitment to become fluent. Learning to sign is only one part of the process. You must be able to understand it when a first language user signs it.
Eligibility
The classes are designed to accommodate adults who are 16 years or older and who have a grade 10 level of education or higher.
Each person has a different capacity to learn language.
Should you have previous skills in ASL, a placement test is required, whereby an ASL instructor will evaluate your current skills and place you in the appropriate level. There is a fee of $25.00 for this assessment.
Class Information
ASL Level 1 includes 101, 102 and 103 - each of these separate courses consisting of a consecutive 12-week, 3 hour class (36 hours). Courses are offered in three sessions throughout the year spring, fall and winter.
In addition, there is ASL Level 2 and ASL Level 3 for individuals who wish to continue to advance their skills in ASL. Please contact us for information about current classes.
Registration Information
For beginner students, registration is to be done at our office within the set registration period. It is on a first come, first serve basis. You must register in person during our office hours, Monday to Friday 9:00 am - 4:30 pm. DASM accepts only cash, money orders or certified cheques as payment.
The January 2008 workshop schedule is currently being updated. If you are interested in registering for a workshop please click here for pre-registration and you will be contacted once workshop information and dates become available.
Special Contracts
The program also provides "Special Contracts: at the workplace. Sign language is one way to communicate effectively with a Deaf member in a work environment. By training your staff in ASL, your organization can become more fully accessible.
Course Fees
All ASL Level 1 courses are $150.00 each
All ASL Level 2 courses are $150.00 each
All ASL Level 3 courses are $175.00 each
There are no taxes on course fees.
Course Materials
Materials for all levels may be purchased at Deaf Access Simcoe Muskoka:
ASL Level 1 workbook with:
(used in 101, 102, and 103)
VHS videotape $80.00
DVD $90.00
ASL Level 2 workbook with:
(used in 201, 202, and 203)
VHS videotape $95.00
DVD $105.00
ASL Level 3 workbook with:
(used in 301-307)
VHS videotape $120.00
DVD $130.00
Prices are subject to change without notice.
Refund Policy
There are no refunds on registration after the first class. There are no refunds on materials.
