Introduction to ASL Grammar and Sentence Structure
In this three-week course, students will learn six sentence and grammar structures used in American Sign Language: object-subject-verb, questions, negative, time, contrastive structure, and role shifting. This is not a full ASL course.
What's included
6 live meetings
5 hrs 30 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
US Grade 9 - 12
Beginner Level
Each lesson we will focus on a different sentence type or structure. We will learn how to translate simple sentences from English to ASL. Then we will add additional components of language such as negatives, modal verbs, question markers, and time. We will end the course learning about two common structures used regularly in ASL. We will begin each class covering the grammar rule. For the first class, we will have a quick lesson on writing in ASL. Then as a class we will translate sentences together. Next, students will be given a practice to complete. We will then come back as a class and review our work together. Finally, students will demonstrate their learning by creating their own sentences, translating them to ASL, and sharing their work with the class. For this course, the class session is broken down into four parts. The first part students will listen to me teach the grammar rule. They may take notes, ask questions, and if they want involve themselves when I ask the whole class questions. The next section, we will work together as a class. During this session, I will call randomly on students to check for their understanding of the lesson. The last two sections, students will independently. I will be there to answer questions students may have, however, students are not required to ask any. Students can listen in to their peer's questions, but they can also take a moment to complete their task, independently. Also during these sections, we will come back together as a class and share our work. During this time, students are expected to share their work with the class. However, students can decide how to share their work. They can show their work to the camera, unmute and explain their work to the class, or attempt to type their work into chat. I am flexible in how students want to interact with their peers.
Learning Goals
I will be able to create my own sentences in English and translate them into grammatically appropriate sentences in American Sign Language.
I will be able to ask questions in American Sign Language using grammatically appropriate structures, including non-manual signs.
Syllabus
6 Lessons
over 3 WeeksLesson 1:
Basic ASL Sentence Structure
In this first lesson, students will learn the difference between English sentence structure and ASL sentence structure. We will translate simple sentences from English to ASL. Finally, we will focus on creating our own simple sentences, translating from English to ASL before sharing them with each other.
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Questions in ASL
In the second lesson, students will learn how to ask questions W/H questions and Yes/No questions in ASL. Then we will translate simple questions from English to ASL. Finally, we will focus on creating our own questions, translating from English to ASL before sharing them with each other.
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Negative Sentence Structure
In the third lesson, students will learn how to sign negative sentences in ASL. We will compare English negative sentences with ASL negative sentences. Then we will translate simple sentences from English to ASL. Finally, we will focus on creating our own sentences, translating from English to ASL before sharing them with each other.
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Time Sentence Structure
In the fourth lesson, students will learn how time appears in ASL. We will compare English sentences with ASL sentences. Then we will translate sentences from English to ASL. Finally, we will focus on creating our own sentences, translating from English to ASL before sharing them with each other.
55 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Pre-Requisites
Students should have familiarity with the basics of American Sign Language, such signs and the manual alphabet. Students do not need a verbose vocabulary, however the more signs the student knows the better.
Supply List
Students should have a pencil or mechanical pencil (please, no pens) and paper at hand for each class session. Taking notes on electronic devices is not encouraged as Microsoft Word and Google Docs are not readily compatible with the work we will do. Additionally, I will be providing optional note taking worksheets and practices for each class session. Students do not need to print them, however, they are designed to fit the class. A student who does not have these materials printed may have to write more by hand versus the student who has the worksheet designed for the lesson.
Language of Instruction
American Sign Language (Level: B2+)
Teacher expertise and credentials
California Teaching Certificate in Foreign Language
Doctoral Degree in Education from California Lutheran University
As a Deaf person, I am well versed in the differences between English and ASL. One of my major goals as a ASL teacher is to ensure my students understand how the two languages are different. During my tenure, many of my students who have decided to pursue ASL further have expressed to me that my expertise and lessons in teaching how to translate to ASL have supported them.
Reviews
Live Group Class
$20
weekly or $60 for 6 classes2x per week, 3 weeks
55 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 15-18
7-10 learners per class