Family & Consumer Sciences - American Sign Language

American Sign Language Program of Study

The American Sign Language (ASL) Program of Study is a one-of-a-kind educational pathway within Family & Consumer Sciences. This program is not just about learning a language—it's a journey of cultural immersion, inclusivity promotion, and career exploration. It equips students with the linguistic skills to communicate in ASL and a profound understanding of the Deaf community, its culture, and its challenges, making it a unique and valuable educational experience.

A Comprehensive Curriculum

The ASL Program of Study offers a comprehensive curriculum that takes students from basic to advanced proficiency in American Sign Language and cultural competence. This structured journey is guided by experienced teachers who not only teach students to sign but also to communicate effectively and empathetically within the Deaf community. They provide insights into the nuances of Deaf culture and history, enriching students' understanding of the community they are learning to communicate with.

• American Sign Language I: This introductory course immerses students in everyday conversational situations using ASL, providing insights into deaf culture and community through a natural and direct method that emphasizes context, modeling, observation, and active participation. Recognized as a World Language credit by colleges and universities, proficiency in ASL can also enhance career opportunities.
• American Sign Language II: Building on the foundation set in American Sign Language I, this course deepens understanding of ASL grammar and focuses on enhancing expressive and receptive ASL skills. Students engage in everyday conversational situations using natural and direct methods supported by meaningful context and activities. The course strongly emphasizes mastering appropriate language, grammar, and cultural behaviors crucial for establishing and maintaining social relations within the deaf community.
• American Sign Language III: Advancing from American Sign Language II, this course further intensifies the focus on ASL grammar and storytelling while continuing to develop expressive and receptive ASL skills. Students engage in more complex communication scenarios, honing their ability to convey and interpret nuanced information in ASL.
• American Sign Language IV: This course builds on American Sign Language III and is designed for students aiming to achieve high-level fluency in ASL, particularly those planning to study ASL in college or pursue careers serving the Deaf community. The course enhances students' comprehension and conversational skills to enable accessible communication in ASL at average signing speeds and within diverse contexts. Additionally, students will undertake various research projects exploring different aspects of Deaf Literacy and Deaf Studies.
• AP Psychology: (College Credit) This course provides an in-depth introduction to the systematic and scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. Students engage with major psychological theories, key concepts, and phenomena across various subfields within psychology. The curriculum emphasizes applying research methods, focusing on their purposes and ethical considerations in psychology.

Career Opportunities

The ASL Program of Study graduates find themselves at the threshold of numerous career opportunities where their skills can make a significant impact. Potential career paths include:

• Sign Language Interpreters are vital in bridging the communication gap between Deaf and hearing individuals across various settings.
• Deaf Education Teachers are dedicated to nurturing the academic and personal growth of Deaf students and those with hearing impairments.
• Social Workers for the Deaf Community, providing essential support and advocacy to address the unique needs of Deaf individuals and their families.
• Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists, who may work closely with the Deaf community, employ ASL as a tool in their therapeutic practices.
• ASL Instructors share the language and its cultural context with new generations of students.
• Accessibility Coordinators, ensuring that services and environments are inclusive and accessible to Deaf individuals.

Preparing Future Leaders

The Program of Study for American Sign Language goes beyond the conventional limits of language education. Its mission is to foster a stronger sense of empathy, comprehension, and reverence for the Deaf community. By using immersive learning methods, community involvement, and cultural events, students learn a language and become champions for inclusivity and accessibility.