Prerequisite: ASL 507 or equivalent with  a grade of C- (70%) or higher.

ASL 312K is a third-semester American Sign Language (ASL) course that emphasizes not only language mastery but also the understanding of Deaf culture, specifically its cultural values, attitudes, beliefs, social norms, and history. It forms a single 3-hour course that is geared to develop a minimum of intermediate-high language proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines at http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf <http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf>  for further details).
 
Learning formats will include instructor lectures, a significant amount of student interaction and hands-on practice, and group-oriented work. Students will develop a deeper understanding of Deaf culture, including its cultural values, attitudes, beliefs, social norms, and history.  Additionally, students will be encouraged to interact with members of Deaf community in order to support their language development. Consistent with the fact that you will receive 3 hours of credit, this course requires a significant time commitment outside of class for assignments and activities.

Required textbooks:

Signing Naturally, Level 2 workbook and DVD, by Lentz, Mikos, and Smith

For Hearing People Only, 3rd Edition, by Moore and Levitan

Course Packet

Prerequisites: ASL 506 or equivalent with a grade of C- or higher

 
ASL 507 is a second-semester American Sign Language (ASL) course that emphasizes not only language fluency but also the understanding of Deaf culture, specifically its cultural values, attitudes, beliefs, social norms, and history.  The course is geared to develop a minimum of intermediate-low to intermediate-mid language proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines [American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages] at http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf for further details).

 
Course study includes ASL grammatical structures, non-manual behaviors, vocabulary and classifiers, fingerspelling and numbers, communication skills (conversations and discussions), and other language functions. Most of the learning activities are based on the text, Signing Naturally Level 1, Units 8-12 and 17. These activities will include interactive activities such as describing others, making requests, talking about family and occupations, attributing qualities to others, talking about routines and talking about weekend activities. Supporting studies include attendance at Deaf events, film and video viewing, ASL literary readings, and other analytical activities.

 

REQUIRED TEXT AND MATERIALS:

 
1)  Signing Naturally Units 7-12, A Student Workbook and Videotext by Smith, Lentz and Mikos

2) For Hearing People Only, 3rd Edition, by Moore & Levitan

3) One Course Packet for ASL 507, Seeger, Connolly, White, & Wynne

Prerequisites: ASL 506 or equivalent with a grade of C- or higher

 
ASL 507 is a second-semester American Sign Language (ASL) course that emphasizes not only language fluency but also the understanding of Deaf culture, specifically its cultural values, attitudes, beliefs, social norms, and history.  The course is geared to develop a minimum of intermediate-low to intermediate-mid language proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines [American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages] at http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf for further details).

 
Course study includes ASL grammatical structures, non-manual behaviors, vocabulary and classifiers, fingerspelling and numbers, communication skills (conversations and discussions), and other language functions. Most of the learning activities are based on the text, Signing Naturally Level 1, Units 8-12 and 17. These activities will include interactive activities such as describing others, making requests, talking about family and occupations, attributing qualities to others, talking about routines and talking about weekend activities. Supporting studies include attendance at Deaf events, film and video viewing, ASL literary readings, and other analytical activities.

 

REQUIRED TEXT AND MATERIALS:

 
1)  Signing Naturally Units 7-12, A Student Workbook and Videotext by Smith, Lentz and Mikos

2) For Hearing People Only, 3rd Edition, by Moore & Levitan

3) One Course Packet for ASL 507, Seeger, Connolly, White, & Wynne

This course will compare two languages: American Sign Language and English and will study their use. In this course, we will introduce you to grammatical aspects of American Sign Language, written English and contact signing. Contact sign derives from the interaction of the two languages and is an important source of language variation in sign. The course will assist students in seeing different grammatical structures by showing these structures on videotape in class. Students will demonstrate signing in ASL in ten grammatical topic areas: topic/comment structure, yes/no question formats; wh-question formats; rhetorical question formats; directionality; use of space; negation; classifiers; conditionals; and time sequencing ordering. There will be homework video assignments. Additionally, the course will examine selected words that have multiple meanings. Students will choose appropriate signs to reflect accurate conceptual meanings. This course is appropriate for students who completed ASL 312K or ASL 4 (specifically Signing Naturally Level I and Level II) from other colleges. The course is designed to support a student's development of advanced low proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines [American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages] at http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf for further details).

Required Texts:

1. "Deaf in America: Voices from a Culture" by Padden and Humphries,

2. “Course 2001: Instructional Guide ASL Grammatical Aspects: Comparative Translations” by Cassell and McCaffrey

3. Course packet

Course Description

In this course we will examine the sign lexicon and basic concepts about the structure and use of American Sign Language. We will stress grammatical features along with syntax and structure. The course will examine Deaf culture, history, values, social norms and how they play an important role in the Deaf community. To appreciate and respect Deaf culture, you must understand the signed language. Students will learn appropriate cultural behaviors such as directing and maintaining attention, and a way of talking that keeps others informed. This course is appropriate for students who have no knowledge of Sign Language to the point where they can function comfortably in a wide variety of situations in the Deaf Community. The course of study will focus on vocabulary and sentences for introducing oneself, exchanging personal information, talking about surroundings/giving directions, telling where you live, talking about your family, and telling about activities.
Texts

LEVEL ONE SIGNING NATURALLY, Units 1-6, A STUDENT WORKBOOK AND VIDEOTEXT by Smith, Lentz, and Mikos.
COURSE PACKET, (ASL 506), at Speedway Copying, Dobie Mall, 2025 Guadalupe, Suite 140
Deaf Culture, Our Way, by R. Holcomb, S. Holcomb and T. Holcomb

Course Description

In this course we will examine the sign lexicon and basic concepts about the structure and use of American Sign Language. We will stress grammatical features along with syntax and structure. The course will examine Deaf culture, history, values, social norms and how they play an important role in the Deaf community. To appreciate and respect Deaf culture, you must understand the signed language. Students will learn appropriate cultural behaviors such as directing and maintaining attention, and a way of talking that keeps others informed. This course is appropriate for students who have no knowledge of Sign Language to the point where they can function comfortably in a wide variety of situations in the Deaf Community. The course of study will focus on vocabulary and sentences for introducing oneself, exchanging personal information, talking about surroundings/giving directions, telling where you live, talking about your family, and telling about activities.
Texts

LEVEL ONE SIGNING NATURALLY, Units 1-6, A STUDENT WORKBOOK AND VIDEOTEXT by Smith, Lentz, and Mikos.
COURSE PACKET, (ASL 506), at Speedway Copying, Dobie Mall, 2025 Guadalupe, Suite 140
Deaf Culture, Our Way, by R. Holcomb, S. Holcomb and T. Holcomb

The course is designed to expand conversational skills. Open discussions will be encouraged to explore issues and how best to conduct oneself in given situations. The goals are to further refine competence in and performance of all grammatical features. Language activities and cross-cultural discussions will be part of the course. You will take part in various kinds of conversational activities that will encourage the development of conversational competence in ASL and mastery of both production and comprehension. These activities will include, but are not limited to, linguistic aspects of ASL, cultural discussion, comparisons, listings, roleshifting technique, illustrated facts and strategic interactions. You will have the opportunity to take part in free-flowing conversations.

Required Text:  Seeing Voices by Oliver Sacks, 1988

Prerequisites: ASL 506 or equivalent with a grade of C- or higher

 
ASL 507 is a second-semester American Sign Language (ASL) course that emphasizes not only language fluency but also the understanding of Deaf culture, specifically its cultural values, attitudes, beliefs, social norms, and history.  The course is geared to develop a minimum of intermediate-low to intermediate-mid language proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines [American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages] at http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf for further details).

 
Course study includes ASL grammatical structures, non-manual behaviors, vocabulary and classifiers, fingerspelling and numbers, communication skills (conversations and discussions), and other language functions. Most of the learning activities are based on the text, Signing Naturally Level 1, Units 8-12 and 17. These activities will include interactive activities such as describing others, making requests, talking about family and occupations, attributing qualities to others, talking about routines and talking about weekend activities. Supporting studies include attendance at Deaf events, film and video viewing, ASL literary readings, and other analytical activities.

 

REQUIRED TEXT AND MATERIALS:

 
1)  Signing Naturally Units 7-12, A Student Workbook and Videotext by Smith, Lentz and Mikos

2) For Hearing People Only, 3rd Edition, by Moore & Levitan

3) One Course Packet for ASL 507, Seeger, Connolly, White, & Wynne

Prerequisites: ASL 506 or equivalent with a grade of C- or higher

 
ASL 507 is a second-semester American Sign Language (ASL) course that emphasizes not only language fluency but also the understanding of Deaf culture, specifically its cultural values, attitudes, beliefs, social norms, and history.  The course is geared to develop a minimum of intermediate-low to intermediate-mid language proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines [American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages] at http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf for further details).

 
Course study includes ASL grammatical structures, non-manual behaviors, vocabulary and classifiers, fingerspelling and numbers, communication skills (conversations and discussions), and other language functions. Most of the learning activities are based on the text, Signing Naturally Level 1, Units 8-12 and 17. These activities will include interactive activities such as describing others, making requests, talking about family and occupations, attributing qualities to others, talking about routines and talking about weekend activities. Supporting studies include attendance at Deaf events, film and video viewing, ASL literary readings, and other analytical activities.

 

REQUIRED TEXT AND MATERIALS:

 
1)  Signing Naturally Units 7-12, A Student Workbook and Videotext by Smith, Lentz and Mikos

2) For Hearing People Only, 3rd Edition, by Moore & Levitan

3) One Course Packet for ASL 507, Seeger, Connolly, White, & Wynne

This course will compare two languages: American Sign Language and English and will study their use. In this course, we will introduce you to grammatical aspects of American Sign Language, written English and contact signing. Contact sign derives from the interaction of the two languages and is an important source of language variation in sign. The course will assist students in seeing different grammatical structures by showing these structures on videotape in class. Students will demonstrate signing in ASL in ten grammatical topic areas: topic/comment structure, yes/no question formats; wh-question formats; rhetorical question formats; directionality; use of space; negation; classifiers; conditionals; and time sequencing ordering. There will be homework video assignments. Additionally, the course will examine selected words that have multiple meanings. Students will choose appropriate signs to reflect accurate conceptual meanings. This course is appropriate for students who completed ASL 312K or ASL 4 (specifically Signing Naturally Level I and Level II) from other colleges. The course is designed to support a student's development of advanced low proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines [American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages] at http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf for further details).

Required Texts:

1. "Deaf in America: Voices from a Culture" by Padden and Humphries,

2. “Course 2001: Instructional Guide ASL Grammatical Aspects: Comparative Translations” by Cassell and McCaffrey

3. Course packet

Course Description

In this course we will examine the sign lexicon and basic concepts about the structure and use of American Sign Language. We will stress grammatical features along with syntax and structure. The course will examine Deaf culture, history, values, social norms and how they play an important role in the Deaf community. To appreciate and respect Deaf culture, you must understand the signed language. Students will learn appropriate cultural behaviors such as directing and maintaining attention, and a way of talking that keeps others informed. This course is appropriate for students who have no knowledge of Sign Language to the point where they can function comfortably in a wide variety of situations in the Deaf Community. The course of study will focus on vocabulary and sentences for introducing oneself, exchanging personal information, talking about surroundings/giving directions, telling where you live, talking about your family, and telling about activities.
Texts

LEVEL ONE SIGNING NATURALLY, Units 1-6, A STUDENT WORKBOOK AND VIDEOTEXT by Smith, Lentz, and Mikos.
COURSE PACKET, (ASL 506), at Speedway Copying, Dobie Mall, 2025 Guadalupe, Suite 140
Deaf Culture, Our Way, by R. Holcomb, S. Holcomb and T. Holcomb

Course Description

In this course we will examine the sign lexicon and basic concepts about the structure and use of American Sign Language. We will stress grammatical features along with syntax and structure. The course will examine Deaf culture, history, values, social norms and how they play an important role in the Deaf community. To appreciate and respect Deaf culture, you must understand the signed language. Students will learn appropriate cultural behaviors such as directing and maintaining attention, and a way of talking that keeps others informed. This course is appropriate for students who have no knowledge of Sign Language to the point where they can function comfortably in a wide variety of situations in the Deaf Community. The course of study will focus on vocabulary and sentences for introducing oneself, exchanging personal information, talking about surroundings/giving directions, telling where you live, talking about your family, and telling about activities.
Texts

LEVEL ONE SIGNING NATURALLY, Units 1-6, A STUDENT WORKBOOK AND VIDEOTEXT by Smith, Lentz, and Mikos.
COURSE PACKET, (ASL 506), at Speedway Copying, Dobie Mall, 2025 Guadalupe, Suite 140
Deaf Culture, Our Way, by R. Holcomb, S. Holcomb and T. Holcomb

ASL 507 or equivalent with  a grade of C- (70%) or higher.

ASL 312K is a third-semester American Sign Language (ASL) course that emphasizes not only language mastery but also the understanding of Deaf culture, specifically its cultural values, attitudes, beliefs, social norms, and history. It forms a single 3-hour course that is geared to develop a minimum of intermediate-high language proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines at http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf <http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf>  for further details).
 
Learning formats will include instructor lectures, a significant amount of student interaction and hands-on practice, and group-oriented work. Students will develop a deeper understanding of Deaf culture, including its cultural values, attitudes, beliefs, social norms, and history.  Additionally, students will be encouraged to interact with members of Deaf community in order to support their language development. Consistent with the fact that you will receive 3 hours of credit, this course requires a significant time commitment outside of class for assignments and activities.

Required textbooks:

Signing Naturally, Level 2 workbook and DVD, by Lentz, Mikos, and Smith

For Hearing People Only, 3rd Edition, by Moore and Levitan

Course Packet

This course will examine the expository and narrative conceptual aspects of American Sign Language. It is an intermediate ASL course that will include the following themes: 1) conversational skills; 2) translating written text into ASL; 3) conceptual presentation; 4) retelling/analyzing ASL stories; 5) grammatical aspects; 6) conceptually accurate signs including definitions & semantic signs; and 7) Deaf Culturenorms and values. Regarding the production part, the students will provide a video project for each unit that presents narratives with ASL aspects. ASL 312L forms single 3-hour course that is geared to develop a minimum of intermediate-high language proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines athttp://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf for further details).

Prerequisites: ASL 312K with at least a C (70%) or above; or completed ASL 4, specifically using Signing Naturally 1 & 2 from other colleges oruniversities.

REQUIRED TEXTS AND MATERIALS:

1. SIGNING NATURALLY LEVEL III, STUDENT WORKBOOK AND VIDEOTEXT. Authors: Smith, Lentz, and Mikos.

2. COURSE PACKET: ASL 312L at Speedway Copying, Dobie Mall, 2025 Guadalupe, Suite 140

3. Triumph of the Spirit: The DPN Chronicle, by Dr. Angel Ramos

4. Internet access to UT Blackboard and Dropbox.com (MANDATORY)

5. One 8 GB (minimum) USB Flash Drive

Prerequisites: ASL 506 or equivalent with a grade of C- or higher

 
ASL 507 is a second-semester American Sign Language (ASL) course that emphasizes not only language fluency but also the understanding of Deaf culture, specifically its cultural values, attitudes, beliefs, social norms, and history.  The course is geared to develop a minimum of intermediate-low to intermediate-mid language proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines [American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages] at http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf for further details).

 
Course study includes ASL grammatical structures, non-manual behaviors, vocabulary and classifiers, fingerspelling and numbers, communication skills (conversations and discussions), and other language functions. Most of the learning activities are based on the text, Signing Naturally Level 1, Units 8-12 and 17. These activities will include interactive activities such as describing others, making requests, talking about family and occupations, attributing qualities to others, talking about routines and talking about weekend activities. Supporting studies include attendance at Deaf events, film and video viewing, ASL literary readings, and other analytical activities.

 

REQUIRED TEXT AND MATERIALS:

 
1)  Signing Naturally Units 7-12, A Student Workbook and Videotext by Smith, Lentz and Mikos

2) For Hearing People Only, 3rd Edition, by Moore & Levitan

3) One Course Packet for ASL 507, Seeger, Connolly, White, & Wynne

Prerequisites: ASL 506 or equivalent with a grade of C- or higher

 
ASL 507 is a second-semester American Sign Language (ASL) course that emphasizes not only language fluency but also the understanding of Deaf culture, specifically its cultural values, attitudes, beliefs, social norms, and history.  The course is geared to develop a minimum of intermediate-low to intermediate-mid language proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines [American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages] at http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf for further details).

 
Course study includes ASL grammatical structures, non-manual behaviors, vocabulary and classifiers, fingerspelling and numbers, communication skills (conversations and discussions), and other language functions. Most of the learning activities are based on the text, Signing Naturally Level 1, Units 8-12 and 17. These activities will include interactive activities such as describing others, making requests, talking about family and occupations, attributing qualities to others, talking about routines and talking about weekend activities. Supporting studies include attendance at Deaf events, film and video viewing, ASL literary readings, and other analytical activities.

 

REQUIRED TEXT AND MATERIALS:

 
1)  Signing Naturally Units 7-12, A Student Workbook and Videotext by Smith, Lentz and Mikos

2) For Hearing People Only, 3rd Edition, by Moore & Levitan

3) One Course Packet for ASL 507, Seeger, Connolly, White, & Wynne

This course will compare two languages: American Sign Language and English and will study their use. In this course, we will introduce you to grammatical aspects of American Sign Language, written English and contact signing. Contact sign derives from the interaction of the two languages and is an important source of language variation in sign. The course will assist students in seeing different grammatical structures by showing these structures on videotape in class. Students will demonstrate signing in ASL in ten grammatical topic areas: topic/comment structure, yes/no question formats; wh-question formats; rhetorical question formats; directionality; use of space; negation; classifiers; conditionals; and time sequencing ordering. There will be homework video assignments. Additionally, the course will examine selected words that have multiple meanings. Students will choose appropriate signs to reflect accurate conceptual meanings. This course is appropriate for students who completed ASL 312K or ASL 4 (specifically Signing Naturally Level I and Level II) from other colleges. The course is designed to support a student's development of advanced low proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines [American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages] at http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf for further details).

Required Texts:

1. "Deaf in America: Voices from a Culture" by Padden and Humphries,

2. “Course 2001: Instructional Guide ASL Grammatical Aspects: Comparative Translations” by Cassell and McCaffrey

3. Course packet

ASL 506

Course Description

In this course we will examine the sign lexicon and basic concepts about the structure and use of American Sign Language. We will stress grammatical features along with syntax and structure. The course will examine Deaf culture, history, values, social norms and how they play an important role in the Deaf community. To appreciate and respect Deaf culture, you must understand the signed language. Students will learn appropriate cultural behaviors such as directing and maintaining attention, and a way of talking that keeps others informed. This course is appropriate for students who have no knowledge of Sign Language to the point where they can function comfortably in a wide variety of situations in the Deaf Community. The course of study will focus on vocabulary and sentences for introducing oneself, exchanging personal information, talking about surroundings/giving directions, telling where you live, talking about your family, and telling about activities.
Texts

LEVEL ONE SIGNING NATURALLY, Units 1-6, A STUDENT WORKBOOK AND VIDEOTEXT by Smith, Lentz, and Mikos.
COURSE PACKET, (ASL 506), at Speedway Copying, Dobie Mall, 2025 Guadalupe, Suite 140
Deaf Culture, Our Way, by R. Holcomb, S. Holcomb and T. Holcomb

ASL 506

Course Description

In this course we will examine the sign lexicon and basic concepts about the structure and use of American Sign Language. We will stress grammatical features along with syntax and structure. The course will examine Deaf culture, history, values, social norms and how they play an important role in the Deaf community. To appreciate and respect Deaf culture, you must understand the signed language. Students will learn appropriate cultural behaviors such as directing and maintaining attention, and a way of talking that keeps others informed. This course is appropriate for students who have no knowledge of Sign Language to the point where they can function comfortably in a wide variety of situations in the Deaf Community. The course of study will focus on vocabulary and sentences for introducing oneself, exchanging personal information, talking about surroundings/giving directions, telling where you live, talking about your family, and telling about activities.
Texts

LEVEL ONE SIGNING NATURALLY, Units 1-6, A STUDENT WORKBOOK AND VIDEOTEXT by Smith, Lentz, and Mikos.
COURSE PACKET, (ASL 506), at Speedway Copying, Dobie Mall, 2025 Guadalupe, Suite 140
Deaf Culture, Our Way, by R. Holcomb, S. Holcomb and T. Holcomb

Course Description

ASL 312K is a third-semester American Sign Language (ASL) course that emphasizes not only language mastery but also the understanding of Deaf culture, specifically its cultural values, attitudes, beliefs, social norms, and history.

Integrates and refines expressive and receptive skills in American Sign Language (ASL), including recognition of sociolinguistic variation. A practice oriented approach to language acquisition with demonstration of more sophisticated grammatical features of American Sign Language (ASL). Increases fluency and accuracy in finger spelling and numbers. Provides opportunities for interaction within the deaf community. Course requires significant time outside of class.

Course study includes ASL grammatical structures, non-manual behaviors, vocabulary and classifiers, fingerspelling and numbers, communication skills (conversations and discussions), and other language functions. Most of the learning activities are based on the text, Signing Naturally. These activities will include interactive activities such as locating things around the house, complaining, making suggestions and requests, exchanging personal information: life events, describing and identifying things, and talking about weekend activities. Supporting studies include attendance of Deaf events, film and video viewing, ASL literary readings, and other analytical activities.
Grading Policy

This course is offered on a letter grade basis only.
Texts

Cassell and McCaffrey, 1995. ASL Grammatical Aspects: Comparative Translation. Padden and Humphries, 1990. Deaf in America: Voices from a Culture. Supplemental photocopied materials

This course will compare two languages: American Sign Language and English and will study their use. In this course, we will introduce you to grammatical aspects of American Sign Language, written English and contact signing. Contact sign derives from the interaction of the two languages and is an important source of language variation in sign. The course will assist students in seeing different grammatical structures by showing these structures on videotape in class. Students will demonstrate signing in ASL and contact signing in ten grammatical topic areas: topic/comment structure, yes/no question formats; wh-question formats; rhetorical question formats; directionality; use of space; negation; classifiers; conditionals; and time sequencing ordering. There will be weekly homework video assignments. Additionally, the course will examine selected words that have multiple meanings. Students will choose appropriate signs to reflect accurate conceptual meanings. This course is appropriate for students who completed ASL 312K or ASL 4 (specifically Signing Naturally Level I and Level II) from other colleges.

Texts

"Deaf in America: Voices from a Culture" by Padden and Humphries

"Course 2001: Instructional Guide ASL Grammatical Aspects: Comparative Translations" by Cassell and McCaffrey

For detailed Course Schedule, download attachment.

For detailed Course Schedule, download attachment.

This course will compare two languages: American Sign Language and English and will study their use. In this course, we will introduce you to grammatical aspects of American Sign Language, written English and contact signing. Contact sign derives from the interaction of the two languages and is an important source of language variation in sign. The course will assist students in seeing different grammatical structures by showing these structures on videotape in class. Students will demonstrate signing in ASL in ten grammatical topic areas: topic/comment structure, yes/no question formats; wh-question formats; rhetorical question formats; directionality; use of space; negation; classifiers; conditionals; and time sequencing ordering. There will be homework video assignments. Additionally, the course will examine selected words that have multiple meanings. Students will choose appropriate signs to reflect accurate conceptual meanings. This course is appropriate for students who completed ASL 312K or ASL 4 (specifically Signing Naturally Level I and Level II) from other colleges. The course is designed to support a student's development of advanced low proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines [American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages] at http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf for further details).

Required Texts:

1. "Deaf in America: Voices from a Culture" by Padden and Humphries,

2. “Course 2001: Instructional Guide ASL Grammatical Aspects: Comparative Translations” by Cassell and McCaffrey

3. Course packet

COURSE DESCRIPTION: In this course we will examine the sign lexicon and basic concepts about the structure and use of American Sign Language. We will stress grammatical features along with syntax and structure. The course will examine Deaf culture, history, values, social norms and how they play an important role in the Deaf community. To appreciate and respect Deaf culture, you must understand the signed language. Students will learn appropriate cultural behaviors such as directing and maintaining attention, and a way of talking that keeps others informed. This course is appropriate for students who have no knowledge of Sign Language to the point where they can function comfortably in a wide variety of situations n the Deaf Community.  The course of study will focus on vocabulary and sentences for introducing oneself, exchanging personal information, talking about surroundings/giving directions, telling where you live, talking about your family, and telling about activities.

COURSE GOALS:

A)   Communication

1. Grammatical Features

a.     Students will demonstrate mastery of target, content-specific commands, questions, and statements in ASL,  both non-manual behaviors and manual signs.

b.     Students will be able to sign and comprehend short dialogues/complete short sentences in ASL as directed by  the instructor.

2. Vocabulary Development

 a.    Given a set of targeted vocabulary items derived from Units 1-7, of Signing Naturally. and  videos, students will show mastery of vocabulary items through class activities  and  assessment.

3. Conversational Skills

a.     Students will demonstrate comprehension and conversation facilitating behaviors.

b.     Students will demonstrate comprehension and production of regulating behaviors (i.e. attention getting  techniques, turn taking signals, and others)

c.     Students will demonstrate comprehension of short narratives and stories in ASL told by the instructor.

B)    Cultural Awareness

1.     Students will gain an understanding of American Sign Language as indigenous to Deaf culture through the use  of print resources and videos.

2.     Students will observe, identify, discuss, and use simple patterns of behavior for interacting in various settings,  such as classroom activities, videotexts, the use of resources, etc.

3.     Students will observe, identify, discuss, and use appropriate communication strategies for greeting and leave- taking, attention getting, and use of names (i.e., name signs) in classroom activities.

4.     Students will observe and discuss the historical and current role of technology in the Deaf culture. (See the  Connections)

C)  Connections

1. Students will understand the use of technology to access and exchange information with and within the Deaf  community.

D)  Comparisons

1.     Students will recognize differences and similarities between spoken languages and the visual/conceptual structure of American Sign Language, including inflections, questions, negatives, statements, etc.

E)  Community

1.     Students will attend social functions/events in which members of the Deaf community are present and write  report.

COURSE RATIONALE: American Sign Language (ASL) is the fourth most commonly used language in the United States.  Estimates range from 500,000 to 2 million speakers in the U.S. alone.  In addition, Deaf Canadians are using ASL. 

For detailed Course Schedule, download attachment.

University of Texas at Austin

Second Year American Sign Language 3

Course Syllabus

DATE:   FALL 2009

COURSE NUMBER             WHEN                    TIME                       WHERE 

ASL 312K     41295           MWF                11:00 – 12:00 PM       PAR 103

ASL 312K     41310           MWF                12:00 –   1:00 PM       PAR 103

INSTRUCTOR:        Perry Connolly                                 EMAIL ADDRESS: pare@mail.utexas.edu   

OFFICE HOURS:     MTW 9 – 10:00 AM                          OFFICE:   CAL 509 

Course Description:

         Prerequisites: ASL 507 or equivalent with a grade of C or higher.

            ASL 312K is a third-semester American Sign Language (ASL) course that emphasizes not only language mastery but also the understanding of Deaf culture, specifically its cultural values, attitudes, beliefs, social norms, and history.

Integrates and refines expressive and receptive skills in American Sign Language (ASL), including recognition of sociolinguistic variation. A practice oriented approach to language acquisition with demonstration of more sophisticated grammatical features of American Sign Language (ASL). Increases fluency and accuracy in finger spelling and numbers. Provides opportunities for interaction within the deaf community. Course requires significant time outside of class.

Course study includes ASL grammatical structures, non-manual behaviors, vocabulary and classifiers, fingerspelling and numbers, communication skills (conversations and discussions), and other language functions. Most of the learning activities are based on the text, Signing Naturally. These activities will include interactive activities such as locating things around the house, complaining, making suggestions and requests, exchanging personal information: life events, and describing and identifying things. Supporting studies include attendance of Deaf events, film and video viewing, ASL literary readings, and other analytical activities.                

Course Rationale:

American Sign Language (ASL) is the fourth most commonly used language in the United States. Estimates range from 500,000 to two million speakers in the U.S. alone.  In addition, Deaf Canadians are using ASL.

Required Textbooks: 

1)                Signing Naturally Level II, Student Workbook and Videotext. Authors: Smith, Lentz, and Mikos

2)                For Hearing People Only, Authors: Matthew S. Moore and Linda Levitan, 3^rd Edition

3)                ASL 312K Course Packet (Speedway Copying & Printing, Dobie Mall)

4)                One 2 GB USB Flash Drive

Course Requirements:

A.        Please note that you are taking this course for a grade. Pass-fail is not an option in class. 

            It is essential that students make every effort to attend every class on time and be prepared to participate in all activities.

Attendance and Participation Policy (66 points): Class attendance and participation is worth 3 points daily. Points begin to be counted on August 28. The total points for attendance and participation (33 days) come to 66 points. The exam days are not included. Also, please remember to bring your course packet to class at all times.

You should plan to attend class regularly, inasmuch as the material covered in class and participation in class discussion are vital to your performance in this course. Roll call is mandatory. It is your responsibility to check Blackboard periodically throughout the semester to ensure that you keep current on your number of absences/tardy.

Reasons for excused absences include illness, family emergency, religious holiday, or attendance at official UT events that require your presence (e.g., athletic events).  Please notify me as soon as possible after you miss the class and when you will be absent for one of these reasons.  Absences due to illness may require a doctor's note. No attendance points will be taken off if you have a valid reason. In the event that you miss the quiz for the reasons given, there will be no make-up; however, the denominator used in the determination of your grade will be adjusted accordingly at the end of the semester. The Blackboard does not reflect concerning the adjustment; however, the Excel spreadsheet is used to reflect it properly. 

Late for class: Each tardiness and early departure of at least 5 minutes from class will be documented. Each total of three (3) tardiness and early departures will be counted as one (1) absence.

Rationale: This is a skill-developing lab course involving group and individual practice and skill development using visual gestural stimuli. There is no way to make up an absence. Missing class or being late to class really does hinder your progress. When you ask questions that may have been answered during the day you were absent or late, the other students suffer.

1. B.        Avoid talking or voicing during class time. Once the instructor enters the classroom, please refrain from using voice. Talking without signing in the presence of a Deaf instructor or any deaf person is considered RUDE in Deaf culture. If you own a pager/cell phone, please turn it OFF as you come in class. Eye contact in the class is very important. Disruptions such as ringing or vibration from the device break the eye contact as heads turn toward the source of the sound!

Rationale: 1) Skills depend on visual perception and memory. Use of auditory stimuli inhibits this learning process for both the person talking and for other students in the class. 2) In this class, students will experience cross-cultural interaction between Deaf and hearing people. It is important that students recognize and respect Deaf culture.

Lab Requirements:

C.        Volunteer Assignment (200 points): You are required to do volunteer work with the Deaf for a total of at least SIX hours (worth 10 points per hour plus 15 points of the supervisor’s evaluation for a maximum of 75 points per activity). Your signing skills (125 points) will be assessed. Turn in your USB flash drive on November 16. One day late will result 25% off of the final grade. See the criteria for more details on your course packet. 

            All video and ethnographic assignments are due as scheduled for full credit. No late assignments will be accepted for those dates. You must go to MEZ 2.104 only to be recorded on camera in front of a Mac computer. No other place, such as your dorm room, your apartment, etc., is allowed. No points will be given if you attempt to divert from the requirements. 

            RATIONALE: Due to the large size of the class and the amount of contact hours per week, it is not possible for the instructor to give each student the desired individual time. It is important that students interact with other Deaf people in order to become fluent in ASL, and more knowledgeable about Deaf culture. Past experience has shown that those students who interact with d/Deaf people do far better on exams than those who do not.

D.        EXAMS and QUIZZES (770 points): Three sets of exams will be given during the course of the semester. The first exam will only be the comprehension part (100 points) that is based on ASL 507. Two sets of exams will comprise of 1) comprehension part (100 points each) and 2) expressive part (100 points each).

            Each exam may take up to two to three class sessions to complete, so plan to be in class on time during those test periods. Teacher will commence administering tests FIVE minutes after the class begins. If you come in late, quietly take a seat and begin on whichever part teacher is on. Questions that you miss, because of your being late, will count against you. No make-ups for exams will be given! Do not miss during those exam days.

For Hearing People Only written quizzes (50 points): will include, but not limited to, True/False, based on reading of selected chapters of the textbook. First quiz is worth 24 possible points and second quiz is worth 26 possible points. Dates are October 2 and 23. 

Announced Quizzes: (100 points). Six comprehension quizzes will be based on your classroom activities and assignments (textbook/videotext). The quizzes are worth 100 points. The lowest quiz grade will be dropped. No make-ups will be given for quizzes missed due to absence. If the absence is caused by extreme circumstances, the lecturer may consider adjusting your final grad points to compensate for the missed quiz.

Movie Quizzes (120 points): You are to watch three DVD movies in their respective order [See handouts]. The first two movies will have a multiple choice quiz. The first movie quiz is 20 points. It is due on September 25. The second movie is 100 points. It is due on October 19.

            Movie Reaction Video (60 points): The goal of this reaction is for you to express your thoughts, opinions or questions. The video must include the information pertaining to the questions [See questions handouts]. You are to answer each in a narrative way. Turn in your USB flash drive on November 6. One day late will result 25% off of the final grade. 

            NO EXTRA CREDITS accepted. Your grade will be based solely on your classroom requirements as stated in your syllabus. 

COURSE ABSTRACT

            Grades will be based on a successful completion of thirteenth (14) exams/quizzes for a total of 770 possible points, in addition to 266 possible points for a successful and satisfactory completion of lab/volunteer assignments, participation and attendance for a total of 1096 possible points.

Cumulative Points      1096 – 1063 = A+                [100% - 97]

                                    1062 – 1030 = A                  [96 – 94]

                                    1029 –   986 = A-                 [93 – 90]

                                      985 –   954 = B+                [89 – 87]

                                      953 –   921 = B                  [86 – 84]

                                      920 –   877 = B-                 [83 – 80]

                                      876 –   844 = C+                [79 – 77]

                                      843 –   811 = C                  [76 – 74]

                                      810 –   767 = C-                 [73 – 70]

                                      766 –   734 = D+                [69 – 67]

                                      733 –   701 = D                  [66 – 64]

                                      700 –   658 = D-                 [63 – 60]

**Note: A grade of D results in ineligibility for any future ASL courses.

Required University Notices and Policies:

University of Texas Honor Code

The core values of the University of Texas at Austin are learning, discovery, freedom, leadership, individual opportunity, and responsibility.  Each member of the university is expected to uphold these values through integrity, honesty, trust, fairness, and respect toward peers and community.

Use of E-Mail for Official Correspondence to Students

Email is recognized as an official mode of university correspondence; therefore, you are responsible for reading your email for university and course-related information and announcements.  You are responsible to keep the university informed about changes to your e-mail address.  You should check your e-mail regularly and frequently – I recommend daily, but at minimum twice a week – to stay current with university-related communications, some of which may be time-critical.  You can find UT Austin’s policies and instructions for updating your e-mail address at http://www.utexas.edu/its/policies/emailnotify.php

Policy on Scholastic Dishonesty:

Students who violate University rules on scholastic dishonesty are subject to disciplinary penalties, including the possibility of failure in the course and/or dismissal from the University. Since such dishonesty harms the individual, all students, and the integrity of the University, policies on scholastic dishonesty will be strictly enforced.  For further information please visit the Student Judicial Services Web site at http://deanofstudents.utexas.edu/sjs.

Documented Disability Statement:

If you require special accommodations, you must obtain a letter that documents your disability from the Services for Students with Disabilities area of the Division of Diversity and Community Engagement (471-6259 or  471-4641 (TTY) for users who are deaf or hard of hearing).   Present the letter to me at the beginning of the semester so we can discuss the accommodations you need.  No later than five business days before an exam, you should remind me of any testing accommodations you will need.  For more information, visit http://www.utexas.edu/diversity.ddce/ssd/.

Behavior Concerns Advice Line (BCAL)

If you are worried about someone who is acting differently, you may use the Behavior Concerns Advice Line to discuss by phone your concerns about another individual’s behavior.  This service is provided through a partnership among the office of the Dean of Students, the Counseling and Mental Health Center (CMHC), the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), AND the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD).  Call 512-232-5050 or visit http://www.utexas.edu/safety/bcal.

Emergency Evacuation Policy

Occupants of buildings on the UT Austin campus are required to evacuate and assemble outside when a fire alarm is activated or an announcement is made.  Plaease be aware of the following policies regarding evacuation:

Familiarize yourself with all exit doors of the classroom and the building.  Remember that the nearest exit door may not be the one you used when you entered the building.

If you require assistance to evacuate, inform me in writing during the first week of class.

In the event of an evacuation, follow my instructions or those of class instructors.

Do not re-enter a building unless you’re given instructions by the Austin Fire Department, the UT Austin Police Department, or the Fire Prevention Services office.

ASL 507 or equivalent with  a grade of C- (70%) or higher.

ASL 312K is a third-semester American Sign Language (ASL) course that emphasizes not only language mastery but also the understanding of Deaf culture, specifically its cultural values, attitudes, beliefs, social norms, and history. It forms a single 3-hour course that is geared to develop a minimum of intermediate-high language proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines at http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf <http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf>  for further details).
 
Learning formats will include instructor lectures, a significant amount of student interaction and hands-on practice, and group-oriented work. Students will develop a deeper understanding of Deaf culture, including its cultural values, attitudes, beliefs, social norms, and history.  Additionally, students will be encouraged to interact with members of Deaf community in order to support their language development. Consistent with the fact that you will receive 3 hours of credit, this course requires a significant time commitment outside of class for assignments and activities.

Required textbooks:

Signing Naturally, Level 2 workbook and DVD, by Lentz, Mikos, and Smith

For Hearing People Only, 3rd Edition, by Moore and Levitan

Course Packet

This course will compare two languages: American Sign Language and English and will study their use. In this course, we will introduce you to grammatical aspects of American Sign Language, written English and contact signing. Contact sign derives from the interaction of the two languages and is an important source of language variation in sign. The course will assist students in seeing different grammatical structures by showing these structures on videotape in class. Students will demonstrate signing in ASL in ten grammatical topic areas: topic/comment structure, yes/no question formats; wh-question formats; rhetorical question formats; directionality; use of space; negation; classifiers; conditionals; and time sequencing ordering. There will be homework video assignments. Additionally, the course will examine selected words that have multiple meanings. Students will choose appropriate signs to reflect accurate conceptual meanings. This course is appropriate for students who completed ASL 312K or ASL 4 (specifically Signing Naturally Level I and Level II) from other colleges. The course is designed to support a student's development of advanced low proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines [American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages] at http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf for further details).

Required Texts:

1. "Deaf in America: Voices from a Culture" by Padden and Humphries,

2. “Course 2001: Instructional Guide ASL Grammatical Aspects: Comparative Translations” by Cassell and McCaffrey

3. Course packet

Prerequisites: ASL 506 or equivalent with a grade of C- or higher

 
ASL 507 is a second-semester American Sign Language (ASL) course that emphasizes not only language fluency but also the understanding of Deaf culture, specifically its cultural values, attitudes, beliefs, social norms, and history.  The course is geared to develop a minimum of intermediate-low to intermediate-mid language proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines [American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages] at http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf for further details).

 
Course study includes ASL grammatical structures, non-manual behaviors, vocabulary and classifiers, fingerspelling and numbers, communication skills (conversations and discussions), and other language functions. Most of the learning activities are based on the text, Signing Naturally Level 1, Units 8-12 and 17. These activities will include interactive activities such as describing others, making requests, talking about family and occupations, attributing qualities to others, talking about routines and talking about weekend activities. Supporting studies include attendance at Deaf events, film and video viewing, ASL literary readings, and other analytical activities.

 

REQUIRED TEXT AND MATERIALS:

 
1)  Signing Naturally Units 7-12, A Student Workbook and Videotext by Smith, Lentz and Mikos

2) For Hearing People Only, 3rd Edition, by Moore & Levitan

3) One Course Packet for ASL 507, Seeger, Connolly, White, & Wynne

This course will compare two languages: American Sign Language and English and will study their use. In this course, we will introduce you to grammatical aspects of American Sign Language, written English and contact signing. Contact sign derives from the interaction of the two languages and is an important source of language variation in sign. The course will assist students in seeing different grammatical structures by showing these structures on videotape in class. Students will demonstrate signing in ASL in ten grammatical topic areas: topic/comment structure, yes/no question formats; wh-question formats; rhetorical question formats; directionality; use of space; negation; classifiers; conditionals; and time sequencing ordering. There will be homework video assignments. Additionally, the course will examine selected words that have multiple meanings. Students will choose appropriate signs to reflect accurate conceptual meanings. This course is appropriate for students who completed ASL 312K or ASL 4 (specifically Signing Naturally Level I and Level II) from other colleges. The course is designed to support a student's development of advanced low proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines [American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages] at http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf for further details).

Required Texts:

1. "Deaf in America: Voices from a Culture" by Padden and Humphries,

2. “Course 2001: Instructional Guide ASL Grammatical Aspects: Comparative Translations” by Cassell and McCaffrey

3. Course packet

This course will compare two languages: American Sign Language and English and will study their use. In this course, we will introduce you to grammatical aspects of American Sign Language, written English and contact signing. Contact sign derives from the interaction of the two languages and is an important source of language variation in sign. The course will assist students in seeing different grammatical structures by showing these structures on videotape in class. Students will demonstrate signing in ASL in ten grammatical topic areas: topic/comment structure, yes/no question formats; wh-question formats; rhetorical question formats; directionality; use of space; negation; classifiers; conditionals; and time sequencing ordering. There will be homework video assignments. Additionally, the course will examine selected words that have multiple meanings. Students will choose appropriate signs to reflect accurate conceptual meanings. This course is appropriate for students who completed ASL 312K or ASL 4 (specifically Signing Naturally Level I and Level II) from other colleges. The course is designed to support a student's development of advanced low proficiency (see the ACTFL Guidelines [American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages] at http://www.actfl.org/files/public/Guidelinesspeak.pdf for further details).

Required Texts:

1. "Deaf in America: Voices from a Culture" by Padden and Humphries,

2. “Course 2001: Instructional Guide ASL Grammatical Aspects: Comparative Translations” by Cassell and McCaffrey

3. Course packet