Bellevue Community College

Foreign Language Department

 

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE 101

 

Quarter

Fall Quarter 2006

Credits:

5

Title

ASL 101-B

Item #:

1445-B

Session Hours

9:30 a.m.-10:20 a.m. (Daily)

Room:

R-204 (Mailbox : R230)

Instructor

N. Marlene Willis

Email:

mwillis@bcc.ctc.edu

Office Hours

Email or by Appt.

 

 

 

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

 

ASL 101 is a five credit, transferable, college level, language course.  It is an introduction to American Sign Language (ASL) and the community of people who use it.  As a second language, ASL 101 also covers fundamental issues of basic human language, grammar and conversation.  Above all, it is a class that requires your attendance, involvement, and practice if you plan to succeed.  Success in this class will bring you valuable skills that will enrich your life significantly, by introducing you to a unique, diverse, rich culture that coexists throughout North America, namely Deaf Community, empowering you to connect with members of that community by means of a natural language, and broaden your understanding of human communication, culture, and language.

 

ASL 101 OBJECTIVES:

 

At the end of this course students will be able to:

 

1.  Demonstrate understanding of fundamental definitions of Deaf Culture and knowledge of the Deaf Community through interactions and written work.

 

2. Demonstrate knowledge of basic issues common to American Deaf Culture, its history and values, through written work (reports, tests, group work and videos).  Also identify elements of Deaf Culture that are different from or similar to their own and identify elements of Deaf family life that are different from or similar to their own family lives.

 

3. Explain and illustrate the substrates of a natural language as opposed to artificial languages or codes.

 

4. Demonstrate knowledge and comprehension of fundamental ASL language functions, grammatical structures and general principles of human language functions that apply not only to ASL but also to various natural languages. (Grammatical Elements – noun, verb, adjective, adverb, pronoun, preposition, subject, object, topic, comment)

 

5. Demonstrate knowledge and comprehension of the rules governing the use of finger-spelling and ASL numbers by correct responses and translations in conversations and exams and correct application in conversations and expressive assignments.

 

6. Translate ideas from ASL to English and English to ASL and demonstrate their skill through quizzes, exams, class presentations and interactions.

 

7. Recognize and understand correct use of ASL through daily practice of core vocabulary by correct responses, translations and application in classroom conversation, receptive exams and expressive assignments.

 

8. Gain a general knowledge of grammatical constructs, rules, and functions of American Sign Language and demonstrate this knowledge through usage, responses, translations and application in classroom conversation, receptive exams and expressive assignments.

 

REQUIRED MATERIALS:

 

Master ASL! Level One Textbook, 1st Edition. and Master ASL! Fingerspelling, Numbers and Glossing Student Companion, 1st Edition. (by Jason E. Zinza) – Please bring both books to class everyday.

 

1001 Uses of ASL Signs DVD/workbook (by Rick Mangan, ASL program Coordinator) - can be purchased in BCC bookstore – Please only bring the DVD workbook everyday.

 

Deaf Culture Paper – This log paper is for you to document all deaf culture events.  The Deaf Culture log paper is posted on the ASL 101-B class webpage for you to print out. It is your responsibility of checking upcoming Deaf Culture events at www.aslsilentvoices.com which is sponsored by ASL BCC Club.  For more information, contact Lindsay, the ASL Club President.  Her email address can be found in the ASL Silent Voices website.

 

Four Scantron Test Quizzes and #2 pencil for the Culture Book/Grammar Quizzes

 

Earplugs :(This is for the students who has lost their earplugs during the first three weeks of the quarter)

 

Stapler:  For you to staple your reports.

 

 

­ RECOMMENDED MATERIALS:

 

Random House Webster’s American Sign Language Dictionary (Hardback Edition) – a good Sign Language Dictionary

 

Quick Study: Academic: “New” American Sign Language by BarCharts, Inc.  For more information, go to www.quickstudy.com  (Good “Study Guide” for ASL 101)

 

Websites to check out for additional information:

 

http://www.handspeak.com

http://commtechlab.msu.edu/sites/aslweb/browser.htm

http://www.hsdc.org

http://www.deafweb.org

http://asl.meetup.com

http://www.deaf.com

 

GRADING:

 

A

96%

Your grade is a numerical reflection of the effort and dedication that you invest toward your learning of this subject and your ability to apply what you have learned.  You are the only person responsible for your grade.  The sum of all of your work points comprises this numerical value that is your grade.  As per BCC policy, you will receive a letter grade after the completion of the quarter.  This letter grade is assigned as an equivalent to your total earned numerical points.  You must have no less than 60% of all possible points to receive a passing grade in this class. You must achieve a minimum of a C grade to transfer to the next level of ASL.

 

There is a total of 1050 points possible for this quarter.  Your grade will be a fraction of that number.  

A-

90%

B+

87%

B

83%

B-

80%

C+

77%

C

73%

C-

70%

D+

67%

D

63%

D-

60%

 

TESTS:

 

We will be covering Units 1 through 4 in Master ASL! Textbook and Master ASL! Student Companion..  The tests will be from Master ASL! Textbook, Master ASL! Student Companion and BCC’s 1001 Uses of ASL DVD disk and workbook.  There will be four tests. There will be no make-up tests.  The last test will be cumulative.

 

Topics of Each Chapter:

 

Unit 1 = Welcome!

Unit 2 = Getting Started

Unit 3 = Getting to know you

Unit 4 = Family & Friends

 

4 tests = 50 points each= 200 points total for Tests

 

CONVERSATION#1

 

You will sign a conversation with a partner to the class. In addition to memorizing the conversation, you need to include non-manual signal and non-manual grammatical markers. I will give you a conversation typed in ASL GLOSS. The conversation will need to be memorized . Grading will be done by your instructor, so practice outside of class is expected. The team will be graded individually on signing skills (including NMGM and NMS) and participation. You may ask me to help you before showing your conversation to the class. (Total is 50 points)

 

CONVERSATION#2

The second conversation will need to be developed by the team with a minimum of 6 to 8 sentences/comments each person. Use 8 to 10 new/different vocabulary/words (not from Units 1 to 4) introduced in class. The conversation will be graded in a variety of ways: In addition to looking at the “quality and depth of the conversation,” I will also be looking at how it flows. Are you being to mechanical and signing without expression and continuity? Does the audience understand the conversation and become drawn in to it? You will have seen at least 12 different types of conversations presented to the class prior to this project so you should have a good idea of how to develop your conversation. If you use fingerspelling in your conversation, make sure you are facing the correct way so the audience can see the word easily. The team will be graded individually on signing skills ) including NMGM and NMS) and participation. All conversations cannot be shared with me since I will be looking for an understanding of ASL grammar and usage of NMS and NMGM. This conversation will be shown to the class. (Total 100 points) ( The  team should be 2 to 4 students). Be sure to give me your paper of your conversation.

 

 

PRATICE LOG

 

You  will need to turn in a practice log. There are many activities to be done outside of class and quite a bit of vocabulary to learn and review. You are required to practice at least 3 times a month (30 to 45minutes each) with someone from class or outside.  In the log, describe the type of signing activities you did, with whom you practiced, and how long you practiced. Try to make this is a no voice practice time for at least half of the practice period by the end of the quarter. Challenge yourself! Include one short paragraph for each practice session. It needs to include the names of the people you practiced with and any thoughts about how the sessions are progressing. (In other words, one practice long turned in will have at least 2 short typed paragraphs with 2 different dates and activities). Please note: The practice log needs to be typed.  Look at the calendar for the dates due. (50 points each = Total 100 points).  There will be no make up for this assignment.

 

 

FINGERSPELLING:

 

We will have eleven fingerspelling Quizzes.  ASL 101 students are expected to master their fingerspelling skills.  Each fingerspelling quiz will consist of ten points.  It will be only one  make-up quiz – one poor grade will be dropped.

10 Fingerspelling Quizzes = 10 points each quiz = 100 points total for Fingerspelling

 

CULTURE BOOK/GRAMMAR QUIZ:

 

We will be using a new book called Master ASL! Level One Textbook and Master ASL! Student Companion by Jason E. Ziinza.  The class will have four tests.  Each test is worth 25 points.. I will post the study guides on the ASL 101-b class websites and will inform to the class when the study guides are posted. There will be no make up Culture Quiz.

 

4 Culture Quizzes = 25 points each = 100 points total for Culture Quiz

 

DEAF CULTURE EXPERIENCE:

 

 The best means of mastering ASL and understanding the Deaf Culture is to attend Deaf Culture events and use ASL.  It is for this reason why I require you to have 2 Deaf Culture contact experiences. The instructor will submit a detailed guideline for how to succeed in your Deaf Culture contact experiences. For each Deaf Culture contact you have acquired, please document this in your Deaf Culture Log Paper and write a 2- 3 pages paper documenting and detailing your experience with Deaf Community for this quarter.  The 2-3 pages paper will be typed and covers the entire Deaf Community experiences you have acquired during this particular quarter.  If it is not typed, I will return the paper back to you. The information of upcoming Deaf Culture events will be from www.aslsilentvoices.com  and the teacher also will announce other upcoming Deaf Culture events in the class.  The deadline for the Deaf Culture Log Paper and the 2-3-pages report will be on the last day of the course.  Late papers will not be accepted.  The teacher will not accept Deaf Culture Report papers via email.

 

2 Deaf Culture Contact Experiences = 100 points total for Deaf Culture Experience. 

 

 

HOMEWORK PROJECTS:

 

Homework projects will be assigned to you as a take home learning/practice experience.  I will provide homework semi-weekly.  Late work will not be accepted.  There will be no make-up homework.  Homework is due at the beginning of the class. Homework projects pertain to the topics we discuss during the course. 

 

5 homework projects = 20 points each = 100 points total for Homework project

 

“AUTHENTIC” EARPLUG EXPERIMENT:

 

It is the philosophy in the ASL Program Department and the Deaf Community that students learn ASL the best way by being “culturally” immersed in the culture that they are learning.

 

For this reason, I require all students to wear earplugs for the first three weeks of school so the students can acquire “authentic” experiences on what it feels to have reduced hearing.  Earplugs also can help prevent noise distractions.  With less noise distractions will enriches the learning environment.

 

I will be providing a pair of earplug to each student.  It is yours to wear the earplugs for the next three weeks.  In case if you do lose your earplugs, it is your responsibility to purchase a new earplug.

 

In case if you have medical reasons that prevent you from wearing an earplug, please notify me about that and please submit me a doctor’s note stating that you have medical reason for not wearing earplugs.

 

Within three weeks of our earplug adventure, I require for all of the students to write a paper detailing your experiences, comments, thoughts on this earplug adventure.  Please type one to two page papers.

 

I have good news:  If you want to wear earplugs for the rest of the quarter (after 1st three weeks), I will award 25 free points for simply wearing earplugs to each class.

 

Please keep in mind, I will be checking all of your ears for each class during the first three weeks of the quarter:  1) At the beginning of the class, 2) after break ends, and 3) when the class ends.  If I see a student not wearing earplug, I will deduce 2 points for each time the student will not wear earplugs in the first three weeks.

 

Also, when each class session ends, always remember to remove your earplugs for safety reasons. 

 

 1 “Authentic Earplug Experiment” Report = 100 points

 

CLASS PARTICIPATION/ATTENDANCE:

 

Your attendance is required if you are to succeed in any sign language class.  ASL 101 is no exception.  Your attendance will be recorded and your percentage of attendance will be added to your final grade.  100 percent attendance will earn 100 attendance points.  If you are not able to show up the class, you are required to inform me via email.  My email address is mwillis@bcc.ctc.edu.  If the student arrive class late, I will give a warning and if the student is late repeatedly, I will count the excessive tardiness as an absence. If the student leaves the class and not come back after the break, I will count this as an absence.

 

Total maximum attendance points = 100 points for perfect attendance

 

MAKE-UP POLICIES:

 

No make ups will be allowed for homework, quizzes, tests and other assignments.  Only exceptions can a student have a make up such as:

 

1) Your required participation in BCC school events (such as BCC sport events) or High School school events if the student is in the Running Start program.  Please submit me a note of your BCC school/HS school schedule and a signature of your sport coach/program director that sponsor the event

 

2) Accidents or other illness that require you to be confined in home/hospital setting.  For that, I require you to submit a doctor’s note. 

 

3) Death in your family.  For that, I need you to submit me a note from a funeral director. 

 

In case if you meet these exceptions, it is your responsibility to approach me and make arrangements to schedule a make-up day/time. 

 

ASL 101-B CLASS WEBSITE:

 

 It is the Student’s responsibility to check the class website frequently for resources and class materials. 

 

www.bcc.ctc.edu/artshum/materials

 

Click on Fall Quarter 2006

Click on World Languages

Click on American Sign Languages

Click on ASL 101-B (Willis, M) (9:30-10:20)

           

                          

 

NO VOICES/NO CELLULAR PHONES:

 

ASL is best mastered if the students turn off their voices because by not using voices will enable the students to develop better receptive ASL skills.  This is the reason why I prohibit students to use voices at all times.  You can use your voice only during the break.  Whispering is not allowed. You are expected to assist your classmates and facilitate their effective learning by letting them wrestle with their own questions.   Whispering answers to them do not help them learn anything .I will give 2 warnings to students who use voice during class.  For 1st warning, I will give a verbal warning and write the warning on paper and if the students use voice for 2nd time again, I will ask the student to please leave the class for the day. 

 

Students are not permitted to use cellular phones during the class for the reason that cellular phones do disrupt the class. 

 

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT:

 

All BCC students are required to adhere to BCC Policy on Student Code of Conduct.  If you are uncertain of what is the BCC Policy on Student Code of Conduct, please go to http://www.bcc.ctc.edu/catalog/policies/studentcode.asp or go to BCC Student Services Department to obtain the 2006-2007 College Catalog.  In starting, I will give you the benefit of the doubt that you as an adult can handle responsibility for your actions.  I will expect courtesy, attentiveness, and a willingness to learn.  In so doing, you will earn my respect as a responsible adult and be treated accordingly.  I will not tolerate any ridicule, harassment, distracting noise or behavior, cell-phone use, whispering, insults, cruelty.  Sometimes, in class, when we make signing mistakes that these mistakes can be funny and laughter follows naturally, good-natured laughter is welcomed, especially where we learn to laugh at ourselves – with our classmates not AT them.  Keep in mind that no one feels free to take risks in an environment where they fear being ridiculed or criticized where you, yourself, feel free to make mistakes, and find understanding and support from those around you. 

 

ACCOMMODATION/ACCESSIBILITY:

 

If you require accommodation based on a documented disability, emergency medical information to share, or need special arrangements in case of emergency evacuation, please make an appointment with me as soon as possible.  You will find that Bellevue Community College has many resources for its students with learning differences or disabilities have many options for developing strategies that for academic success.

 

If you would like to inquire about becoming a DSS student, you may call 564-2498 or go in person to the DSS (Disability Support Services) program office at B-132 or check out their website (http://www.bcc.ctc.edu/dss).

 

INCLEMENT WEATHER INFORMATION:

 

In case of inclement weather, check the status of BCC opening/closing by going to web: http://status.bcc.ctc.edu or call (425) 401-6680 to obtain recorded message regarding the status of BCC opening/closing. In case of the inclement weather on the day when the class is taking the test, the test will be postponed till the next class. 

 

ASL CAN BE FUN!!!!!!!!!!!:

 

American Sign Language is said to be one of the most beautiful languages in the world.  It literally is an art.  It is a visual-spatial language which enables you to express yourself in 3-D.  In ASL, it is very natural for students to make mistakes.  By learning from mistakes students to master ASL much faster than they would by trying to avoid them.  Learning ASL also can be fun!  We will have lot of group activities and play games. 

 

HOLIDAY DATES/NO CLASSES HELD ON THESE DATES:

 

Wednesday, October 11, 2006 (College Issues Day – No class)

Monday October 30, 2006 (Prof. Development Day – No class)

Friday, November 10, 2006 (Staff Prof. Dev. Day – No class)

Thursday, November 23, 2006 (Thanksgiving Holiday)

Friday November 24, 2006 (Thanksgiving Holiday)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bellevue Community College

Foreign Language Department

 

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE 101

 

Quarter

Fall Quarter 2006

Credits:

5

Title

ASL 101-D

Item #:

1447-D

Session Hours

12:30 a.m.-1:20 a.m. (Daily)

Room:

R-204 (Mailbox : R230)

Instructor

N. Marlene Willis

Email:

mwillis@bcc.ctc.edu

Office Hours

Email or by Appt.

 

 

 

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

 

ASL 101 is a five credit, transferable, college level, language course.  It is an introduction to American Sign Language (ASL) and the community of people who use it.  As a second language, ASL 101 also covers fundamental issues of basic human language, grammar and conversation.  Above all, it is a class that requires your attendance, involvement, and practice if you plan to succeed.  Success in this class will bring you valuable skills that will enrich your life significantly, by introducing you to a unique, diverse, rich culture that coexists throughout North America, namely Deaf Community, empowering you to connect with members of that community by means of a natural language, and broaden your understanding of human communication, culture, and language.

 

ASL 101 OBJECTIVES:

 

At the end of this course students will be able to:

 

1.  Demonstrate understanding of fundamental definitions of Deaf Culture and knowledge of the Deaf Community through interactions and written work.

 

2. Demonstrate knowledge of basic issues common to American Deaf Culture, its history and values, through written work (reports, tests, group work and videos).  Also identify elements of Deaf Culture that are different from or similar to their own and identify elements of Deaf family life that are different from or similar to their own family lives.

 

3. Explain and illustrate the substrates of a natural language as opposed to artificial languages or codes.

 

4. Demonstrate knowledge and comprehension of fundamental ASL language functions, grammatical structures and general principles of human language functions that apply not only to ASL but also to various natural languages. (Grammatical Elements – noun, verb, adjective, adverb, pronoun, preposition, subject, object, topic, comment)

 

5. Demonstrate knowledge and comprehension of the rules governing the use of finger-spelling and ASL numbers by correct responses and translations in conversations and exams and correct application in conversations and expressive assignments.

 

6. Translate ideas from ASL to English and English to ASL and demonstrate their skill through quizzes, exams, class presentations and interactions.

 

7. Recognize and understand correct use of ASL through daily practice of core vocabulary by correct responses, translations and application in classroom conversation, receptive exams and expressive assignments.

 

8. Gain a general knowledge of grammatical constructs, rules, and functions of American Sign Language and demonstrate this knowledge through usage, responses, translations and application in classroom conversation, receptive exams and expressive assignments.

 

REQUIRED MATERIALS:

 

Master ASL! Level One Textbook, 1st Edition. and Master ASL! Fingerspelling, Numbers and Glossing Student Companion, 1st Edition. (by Jason E. Zinza) – Please bring both books to class everyday.

 

1001 Uses of ASL Signs DVD/workbook (by Rick Mangan, ASL program Coordinator) - can be purchased in BCC bookstore – Please only bring the DVD workbook everyday.

 

Deaf Culture Paper – This log paper is for you to document all deaf culture events.  The Deaf Culture log paper is posted on the ASL 101-D class webpage for you to print out. It is your responsibility of checking upcoming Deaf Culture events at www.aslsilentvoices.com which is sponsored by ASL BCC Club.  For more information, contact Lindsay, the ASL Club President.  Her email address can be found in the ASL Silent Voices website.

 

Four Scantron Test Quizzes and #2 pencil for the Culture Book/Grammar Quizzes

 

Earplugs :(This is for the students who has lost their earplugs during the first three weeks of the quarter)

 

Stapler:  For you to staple your reports.

 

 

­ RECOMMENDED MATERIALS:

 

Random House Webster’s American Sign Language Dictionary (Hardback Edition) – a good Sign Language Dictionary

 

Quick Study: Academic: “New” American Sign Language by BarCharts, Inc.  For more information, go to www.quickstudy.com  (Good “Study Guide” for ASL 101)

 

Websites to check out for additional information:

 

http://www.handspeak.com

http://commtechlab.msu.edu/sites/aslweb/browser.htm

http://www.hsdc.org

http://www.deafweb.org

http://asl.meetup.com

http://www.deaf.com

 

GRADING:

 

A

96%

Your grade is a numerical reflection of the effort and dedication that you invest toward your learning of this subject and your ability to apply what you have learned.  You are the only person responsible for your grade.  The sum of all of your work points comprises this numerical value that is your grade.  As per BCC policy, you will receive a letter grade after the completion of the quarter.  This letter grade is assigned as an equivalent to your total earned numerical points.  You must have no less than 60% of all possible points to receive a passing grade in this class. You must achieve a minimum of a C grade to transfer to the next level of ASL.

 

There is a total of 1050 points possible for this quarter.  Your grade will be a fraction of that number.  

A-

90%

B+

87%

B

83%

B-

80%

C+

77%

C

73%

C-

70%

D+

67%

D

63%

D-

60%

 

TESTS:

 

We will be covering Units 1 through 4 in Master ASL! Textbook and Master ASL! Student Companion..  The tests will be from Master ASL! Textbook, Master ASL! Student Companion and BCC’s 1001 Uses of ASL DVD disk and workbook.  There will be four tests. There will be no make-up tests.  The last test will be cumulative.

 

Topics of Each Chapter:

 

Unit 1 = Welcome!

Unit 2 = Getting Started

Unit 3 = Getting to know you

Unit 4 = Family & Friends

 

4 tests = 50 points each= 200 points total for Tests

 

CONVERSATION#1

 

You will sign a conversation with a partner to the class. In addition to memorizing the conversation, you need to include non-manual signal and non-manual grammatical markers. I will give you a conversation typed in ASL GLOSS. The conversation will need to be memorized . Grading will be done by your instructor, so practice outside of class is expected. The team will be graded individually on signing skills (including NMGM and NMS) and participation. You may ask me to help you before showing your conversation to the class. (Total is 50 points)

 

CONVERSATION#2

The second conversation will need to be developed by the team with a minimum of 6 to 8 sentences/comments each person. Use 8 to 10 new/different vocabulary/words (not from Units 1 to 4) introduced in class. The conversation will be graded in a variety of ways: In addition to looking at the “quality and depth of the conversation,” I will also be looking at how it flows. Are you being to mechanical and signing without expression and continuity? Does the audience understand the conversation and become drawn in to it? You will have seen at least 12 different types of conversations presented to the class prior to this project so you should have a good idea of how to develop your conversation. If you use fingerspelling in your conversation, make sure you are facing the correct way so the audience can see the word easily. The team will be graded individually on signing skills) including NMGM and NMS) and participation. All conversations cannot be shared with me since I will be looking for an understanding of ASL grammar and usage of NMS and NMGM. This conversation will be shown to the class. (Total 100 points) (The team should be 2 to 4 students). Be sure to give me your paper of your conversation.

 

 

PRATICE LOG

 

You  will need to turn in a practice log. There are many activities to be done outside of class and quite a bit of vocabulary to learn and review. You are required to practice at least 3 times a month (30 to 45minutes each) with someone from class or outside.  In the log, describe the type of signing activities you did, with whom you practiced, and how long you practiced. Try to make this is a no voice practice time for at least half of the practice period by the end of the quarter. Challenge yourself! Include one short paragraph for each practice session. It needs to include the names of the people you practiced with and any thoughts about how the sessions are progressing. (In other words, one practice long turned in will have at least 2 short typed paragraphs with 2 different dates and activities). Please note: The practice log needs to be typed.  Look at the calendar for the dates due. (50 points each = Total 100 points).  There will be no make up for this assignment.

 

 

FINGERSPELLING:

 

We will have eleven fingerspelling Quizzes.  ASL 101 students are expected to master their fingerspelling skills.  Each fingerspelling quiz will consist of ten points.  It will be only one  make-up quiz – one poor grade will be dropped.

10 Fingerspelling Quizzes = 10 points each quiz = 100 points total for Fingerspelling

 

CULTURE BOOK/GRAMMAR QUIZ:

 

We will be using a new book called Master ASL! Level One Textbook and Master ASL! Student Companion by Jason E. Ziinza.  The class will have four tests.  Each test is worth 25 points.. I will post the study guides on the ASL 101-b class websites and will inform to the class when the study guides are posted. There will be no make up Culture Quiz.

 

4 Culture Quizzes = 25 points each = 100 points total for Culture Quiz

 

DEAF CULTURE EXPERIENCE:

 

 The best means of mastering ASL and understanding the Deaf Culture is to attend Deaf Culture events and use ASL.  It is for this reason why I require you to have 2 Deaf Culture contact experiences. The instructor will submit a detailed guideline for how to succeed in your Deaf Culture contact experiences. For each Deaf Culture contact you have acquired, please document this in your Deaf Culture Log Paper and write a 2- 3 pages paper documenting and detailing your experience with Deaf Community for this quarter.  The 2-3 pages paper will be typed and covers the entire Deaf Community experiences you have acquired during this particular quarter.  If it is not typed, I will return the paper back to you. The information of upcoming Deaf Culture events will be from www.aslsilentvoices.com  and the teacher also will announce other upcoming Deaf Culture events in the class.  The deadline for the Deaf Culture Log Paper and the 2-3-pages report will be on the last day of the course.  Late papers will not be accepted.  The teacher will not accept Deaf Culture Report papers via email.

 

2 Deaf Culture Contact Experiences = 100 points total for Deaf Culture Experience. 

 

 

HOMEWORK PROJECTS:

 

Homework projects will be assigned to you as a take home learning/practice experience.  I will provide homework semi-weekly.  Late work will not be accepted.  There will be no make-up homework.  Homework is due at the beginning of the class. Homework projects pertain to the topics we discuss during the course. 

 

5 homework projects = 20 points each = 100 points total for Homework project

 

“AUTHENTIC” EARPLUG EXPERIMENT:

 

It is the philosophy in the ASL Program Department and the Deaf Community that students learn ASL the best way by being “culturally” immersed in the culture that they are learning.

 

For this reason, I require all students to wear earplugs for the first three weeks of school so the students can acquire “authentic” experiences on what it feels to have reduced hearing.  Earplugs also can help prevent noise distractions.  With less noise distractions will enriches the learning environment.

 

I will be providing a pair of earplug to each student.  It is yours to wear the earplugs for the next three weeks.  In case if you do lose your earplugs, it is your responsibility to purchase a new earplug.

 

In case if you have medical reasons that prevent you from wearing an earplug, please notify me about that and please submit me a doctor’s note stating that you have medical reason for not wearing earplugs.

 

Within three weeks of our earplug adventure, I require for all of the students to write a paper detailing your experiences, comments, thoughts on this earplug adventure.  Please type one to two page papers.

 

I have good news :  If you want to wear earplugs for the rest of the quarter (after 1st three weeks), I will award 25 free points for simply wearing earplugs to each class.

 

Please keep in mind, I will be checking all of your ears for each class during the first three weeks of the quarter:  1) At the beginning of the class, 2) after break ends, and 3) when the class ends.  If I see a student not wearing earplug, I will deduce 2 points for each time the student will not wear earplugs in the first three weeks.

 

Also, when each class session ends, always remember to remove your earplugs for safety reasons. 

 

 1 “Authentic Earplug Experiment” Report = 100 points

 

CLASS PARTICIPATION/ATTENDANCE:

 

Your attendance is required if you are to succeed in any sign language class.  ASL 101 is no exception.  Your attendance will be recorded and your percentage of attendance will be added to your final grade.  100 percent attendance will earn 100 attendance points.  If you are not able to show up the class, you are required to inform me via email.  My email address is mwillis@bcc.ctc.edu.  If the student arrive class late, I will give a warning and if the student is late repeatedly, I will count the excessive tardiness as an absence. If the student leaves the class and not come back after the break, I will count this as an absence.

 

Total maximum attendance points = 100 points for perfect attendance

 

MAKE-UP POLICIES:

 

No make ups will be allowed for homework, quizzes, tests and other assignments.  Only exceptions can a student have a make up such as:

 

1) Your required participation in BCC school events (such as BCC sport events) or High School school events if the student is in the Running Start program.  Please submit me a note of your BCC school/HS school schedule and a signature of your sport coach/program director that sponsor the event

 

2) Accidents or other illness that require you to be confined in home/hospital setting.  For that, I require you to submit a doctor’s note. 

 

3) Death in your family.  For that, I need you to submit me a note from a funeral director. 

 

In case if you meet these exceptions, it is your responsibility to approach me and make arrangements to schedule a make-up day/time. 

 

ASL 101-D CLASS WEBSITE:

 

 It is the Student’s responsibility to check the class website frequently for resources and class materials. 

 

www.bcc.ctc.edu/artshum/materials

 

Click on Fall Quarter 2006

Click on World Languages

Click on American Sign Languages

            Click on ASL 101-D (Willis, M) (12:30-1:20)

 

 

NO VOICES/NO CELLULAR PHONES:

 

ASL is best mastered if the students turn off their voices because by not using voices will enable the students to develop better receptive ASL skills.  This is the reason why I prohibit students to use voices at all times.  You can use your voice only during the break.  Whispering is not allowed. You are expected to assist your classmates and facilitate their effective learning by letting them wrestle with their own questions.   Whispering answers to them do not help them learn anything .I will give 2 warnings to students who use voice during class.  For 1st warning, I will give a verbal warning and write the warning on paper and if the students use voice for 2nd time again, I will ask the student to please leave the class for the day. 

 

Students are not permitted to use cellular phones during the class for the reason that cellular phones do disrupt the class. 

 

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT:

 

All BCC students are required to adhere to BCC Policy on Student Code of Conduct.  If you are uncertain of what is the BCC Policy on Student Code of Conduct, please go to http://www.bcc.ctc.edu/catalog/policies/studentcode.asp or go to BCC Student Services Department to obtain the 2006-2007 College Catalogs.  In starting, I will give you the benefit of the doubt that you as an adult can handle responsibility for your actions.  I will expect courtesy, attentiveness, and a willingness to learn.  In so doing, you will earn my respect as a responsible adult and be treated accordingly.  I will not tolerate any ridicule, harassment, distracting noise or behavior, cell-phone use, whispering, insults, cruelty.  Sometimes, in class, when we make signing mistakes that these mistakes can be funny and laughter follows naturally, good-natured laughter is welcomed, especially where we learn to laugh at ourselves – with our classmates not AT them.  Keep in mind that no one feels free to take risks in an environment where they fear being ridiculed or criticized where you, yourself, feel free to make mistakes, and find understanding and support from those around you. 

 

ACCOMMODATION/ACCESSIBILITY:

 

If you require accommodation based on a documented disability, emergency medical information to share, or need special arrangements in case of emergency evacuation, please make an appointment with me as soon as possible.  You will find that Bellevue Community College has many resources for its students with learning differences or disabilities have many options for developing strategies that for academic success.

 

If you would like to inquire about becoming a DSS student, you may call 564-2498 or go in person to the DSS (Disability Support Services) program office at B-132 or check out their website (http://www.bcc.ctc.edu/dss).

 

INCLEMENT WEATHER INFORMATION:

 

In case of inclement weather, check the status of BCC opening/closing by going to web: http://status.bcc.ctc.edu or call (425) 401-6680 to obtain recorded message regarding the status of BCC opening/closing. In case of the inclement weather on the day when the class is taking the test, the test will be postponed till the next class. 

 

ASL CAN BE FUN!!!!!!!!!!!:

 

American Sign Language is said to be one of the most beautiful languages in the world.  It literally is an art.  It is a visual-spatial language which enables you to express yourself in 3-D.  In ASL, it is very natural for students to make mistakes.  By learning from mistakes students to master ASL much faster than they would by trying to avoid them.  Learning ASL also can be fun!  We will have lot of group activities and play games. 

 

HOLIDAY DATES/NO CLASSES HELD ON THESE DATES:

 

Wednesday, October 11, 2006 (College Issues Day – No class)

Monday October 30, 2006 (Prof. Development Day – No class)

Friday, November 10, 2006 (Staff Prof. Dev. Day – No class)

Thursday, November 23, 2006 (Thanksgiving Holiday)

Friday November 24, 2006 (Thanksgiving Holiday)

 

 

 

 

 

Bellevue Community College

Foreign Language Department

 

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE 101

 

Quarter

Fall Quarter 2006

Credits:

5

Title

ASL 101-E

Item #:

1448-E

Session Hours

3:00 p.m.-5:10 p.m. (Daily)

Room:

R-204 (Mailbox : R230)

Instructor

N. Marlene Willis

Email:

mwillis@bcc.ctc.edu

Office Hours

Email or by Appt.

 

 

 

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

 

ASL 101 is a five credit, transferable, college level, language course.  It is an introduction to American Sign Language (ASL) and the community of people who use it.  As a second language, ASL 101 also covers fundamental issues of basic human language, grammar and conversation.  Above all, it is a class that requires your attendance, involvement, and practice if you plan to succeed.  Success in this class will bring you valuable skills that will enrich your life significantly, by introducing you to a unique, diverse, rich culture that coexists throughout North America, namely Deaf Community, empowering you to connect with members of that community by means of a natural language, and broaden your understanding of human communication, culture, and language.

 

ASL 101 OBJECTIVES:

 

At the end of this course students will be able to:

 

1.  Demonstrate understanding of fundamental definitions of Deaf Culture and knowledge of the Deaf Community through interactions and written work.

 

2. Demonstrate knowledge of basic issues common to American Deaf Culture, its history and values, through written work (reports, tests, group work and videos).  Also identify elements of Deaf Culture that are different from or similar to their own and identify elements of Deaf family life that are different from or similar to their own family lives.

 

3. Explain and illustrate the substrates of a natural language as opposed to artificial languages or codes.

 

4. Demonstrate knowledge and comprehension of fundamental ASL language functions, grammatical structures and general principles of human language functions that apply not only to ASL but also to various natural languages. (Grammatical Elements – noun, verb, adjective, adverb, pronoun, preposition, subject, object, topic, comment)

 

5. Demonstrate knowledge and comprehension of the rules governing the use of finger-spelling and ASL numbers by correct responses and translations in conversations and exams and correct application in conversations and expressive assignments.

 

6. Translate ideas from ASL to English and English to ASL and demonstrate their skill through quizzes, exams, class presentations and interactions.

 

7. Recognize and understand correct use of ASL through daily practice of core vocabulary by correct responses, translations and application in classroom conversation, receptive exams and expressive assignments.

 

8. Gain a general knowledge of grammatical constructs, rules, and functions of American Sign Language and demonstrate this knowledge through usage, responses, translations and application in classroom conversation, receptive exams and expressive assignments.

 

REQUIRED MATERIALS:

 

Master ASL! Level One Textbook, 1st Edition. and Master ASL! Fingerspelling, Numbers and Glossing Student Companion, 1st Edition. (by Jason E. Zinza) – Please bring both books to class everyday.

 

1001 Uses of ASL Signs DVD/workbook (by Rick Mangan, ASL program Coordinator) - can be purchased in BCC bookstore – Please only bring the DVD workbook everyday.

 

Deaf Culture Paper – This log paper is for you to document all deaf culture events.  The Deaf Culture log paper is posted on the ASL 101-E class webpage for you to print out. It is your responsibility of checking upcoming Deaf Culture events at www.aslsilentvoices.com which is sponsored by ASL BCC Club.  For more information, contact Lindsay, the ASL Club President.  Her email address can be found in the ASL Silent Voices website.

 

Four Scantron Test Quizzes and #2 pencil for the Culture Book/Grammar Quizzes

 

Earplugs :(This is for the students who has lost their earplugs during the first three weeks of the quarter)

 

Stapler:  For you to staple your reports.

 

 

­ RECOMMENDED MATERIALS:

 

Random House Webster’s American Sign Language Dictionary (Hardback Edition) – a good Sign Language Dictionary

 

Quick Study: Academic: “New” American Sign Language by BarCharts, Inc.  For more information, go to www.quickstudy.com  (Good “Study Guide” for ASL 101)

 

Websites to check out for additional information:

 

http://www.handspeak.com

http://commtechlab.msu.edu/sites/aslweb/browser.htm

http://www.hsdc.org

http://www.deafweb.org

http://asl.meetup.com

http://www.deaf.com

 

GRADING:

 

A

96%

Your grade is a numerical reflection of the effort and dedication that you invest toward your learning of this subject and your ability to apply what you have learned.  You are the only person responsible for your grade.  The sum of all of your work points comprises this numerical value that is your grade.  As per BCC policy, you will receive a letter grade after the completion of the quarter.  This letter grade is assigned as an equivalent to your total earned numerical points.  You must have no less than 60% of all possible points to receive a passing grade in this class. You must achieve a minimum of a C grade to transfer to the next level of ASL.

 

There is a total of 1050 points possible for this quarter.  Your grade will be a fraction of that number.  

A-

90%

B+

87%

B

83%

B-

80%

C+

77%

C

73%

C-

70%

D+

67%

D

63%

D-

60%

 

TESTS:

 

We will be covering Units 1 through 4 in Master ASL! Textbook and Master ASL! Student Companion..  The tests will be from Master ASL! Textbook, Master ASL! Student Companion and BCC’s 1001 Uses of ASL DVD disk and workbook.  There will be four tests. There will be no make-up tests.  The last test will be cumulative.

 

Topics of Each Chapter:

 

Unit 1 = Welcome!

Unit 2 = Getting Started

Unit 3 = Getting to know you

Unit 4 = Family & Friends

 

4 tests = 50 points each= 200 points total for Tests

 

CONVERSATION#1

 

You will sign a conversation with a partner to the class. In addition to memorizing the conversation, you need to include non-manual signal and non-manual grammatical markers. I will give you a conversation typed in ASL GLOSS. The conversation will need to be memorized . Grading will be done by your instructor, so practice outside of class is expected. The team will be graded individually on signing skills (including NMGM and NMS) and participation. You may ask me to help you before showing your conversation to the class. (Total is 50 points)

 

CONVERSATION#2

The second conversation will need to be developed by the team with a minimum of 6 to 8 sentences/comments each person. Use 8 to 10 new/different vocabulary/words (not from Units 1 to 4) introduced in class. The conversation will be graded in a variety of ways: In addition to looking at the “quality and depth of the conversation,” I will also be looking at how it flows. Are you being to mechanical and signing without expression and continuity? Does the audience understand the conversation and become drawn in to it? You will have seen at least 12 different types of conversations presented to the class prior to this project so you should have a good idea of how to develop your conversation. If you use fingerspelling in your conversation, make sure you are facing the correct way so the audience can see the word easily. The team will be graded individually on signing skills ) including NMGM and NMS) and participation. All conversations cannot be shared with me since I will be looking for an understanding of ASL grammar and usage of NMS and NMGM. This conversation will be shown to the class. (Total 100 points) ( The  team should be 2 to 4 students). Be sure to give me your paper of your conversation.

 

 

PRATICE LOG

 

You  will need to turn in a practice log. There are many activities to be done outside of class and quite a bit of vocabulary to learn and review. You are required to practice at least 3 times a month (30 to 45minutes each) with someone from class or outside.  In the log, describe the type of signing activities you did, with whom you practiced, and how long you practiced. Try to make this is a no voice practice time for at least half of the practice period by the end of the quarter. Challenge yourself! Include one short paragraph for each practice session. It needs to include the names of the people you practiced with and any thoughts about how the sessions are progressing. (In other words, one practice long turned in will have at least 2 short typed paragraphs with 2 different dates and activities). Please note: The practice log needs to be typed.  Look at the calendar for the dates due. (50 points each = Total 100 points).  There will be no make up for this assignment.

 

 

FINGERSPELLING:

 

We will have eleven fingerspelling Quizzes.  ASL 101 students are expected to master their fingerspelling skills.  Each fingerspelling quiz will consist of ten points.  It will be only one  make-up quiz – one poor grade will be dropped.

10 Fingerspelling Quizzes = 10 points each quiz = 100 points total for Fingerspelling

 

CULTURE BOOK/GRAMMAR QUIZ:

 

We will be using a new book called Master ASL! Level One Textbook and Master ASL! Student Companion by Jason E. Ziinza.  The class will have four tests.  Each test is worth 25 points.. I will post the study guides on the ASL 101-b class websites and will inform to the class when the study guides are posted. There will be no make up Culture Quiz.

 

4 Culture Quizzes = 25 points each = 100 points total for Culture Quiz

 

DEAF CULTURE EXPERIENCE:

 

 The best means of mastering ASL and understanding the Deaf Culture is to attend Deaf Culture events and use ASL.  It is for this reason why I require you to have 2 Deaf Culture contact experiences. The instructor will submit a detailed guideline for how to succeed in your Deaf Culture contact experiences. For each Deaf Culture contact you have acquired, please document this in your Deaf Culture Log Paper and write a 2- 3 pages paper documenting and detailing your experience with Deaf Community for this quarter.  The 2-3 pages paper will be typed and covers the entire Deaf Community experiences you have acquired during this particular quarter.  If it is not typed, I will return the paper back to you. The information of upcoming Deaf Culture events will be from www.aslsilentvoices.com  and the teacher also will announce other upcoming Deaf Culture events in the class.  The deadline for the Deaf Culture Log Paper and the 2-3-pages report will be on the last day of the course.  Late papers will not be accepted.  The teacher will not accept Deaf Culture Report papers via email.

 

2 Deaf Culture Contact Experiences = 100 points total for Deaf Culture Experience. 

 

 

HOMEWORK PROJECTS:

 

Homework projects will be assigned to you as a take home learning/practice experience.  I will provide homework semi-weekly.  Late work will not be accepted.  There will be no make-up homework.  Homework is due at the beginning of the class. Homework projects pertain to the topics we discuss during the course. 

 

5 homework projects = 20 points each = 100 points total for Homework project

 

“AUTHENTIC” EARPLUG EXPERIMENT:

 

It is the philosophy in the ASL Program Department and the Deaf Community that students learn ASL the best way by being “culturally” immersed in the culture that they are learning.

 

For this reason, I require all students to wear earplugs for the first three weeks of school so the students can acquire “authentic” experiences on what it feels to have reduced hearing.  Earplugs also can help prevent noise distractions.  With less noise distractions will enriches the learning environment.

 

I will be providing a pair of earplug to each student.  It is yours to wear the earplugs for the next three weeks.  In case if you do lose your earplugs, it is your responsibility to purchase a new earplug.

 

In case if you have medical reasons that prevent you from wearing an earplug, please notify me about that and please submit me a doctor’s note stating that you have medical reason for not wearing earplugs.

 

Within three weeks of our earplug adventure, I require for all of the students to write a paper detailing your experiences, comments, thoughts on this earplug adventure.  Please type one to two page papers.

 

I have good news :  If you want to wear earplugs for the rest of the quarter (after 1st three weeks), I will award 25 free points for simply wearing earplugs to each class.

 

Please keep in mind, I will be checking all of your ears for each class during the first three weeks of the quarter:  1) At the beginning of the class, 2) after break ends, and 3) when the class ends.  If I see a student not wearing earplug, I will deduce 2 points for each time the student will not wear earplugs in the first three weeks.

 

Also, when each class session ends, always remember to remove your earplugs for safety reasons. 

 

 1 “Authentic Earplug Experiment” Report = 100 points

 

CLASS PARTICIPATION/ATTENDANCE:

 

Your attendance is required if you are to succeed in any sign language class.  ASL 101 is no exception.  Your attendance will be recorded and your percentage of attendance will be added to your final grade.  100 percent attendance will earn 100 attendance points.  If you are not able to show up the class, you are required to inform me via email.  My email address is mwillis@bcc.ctc.edu.  If the student arrive class late, I will give a warning and if the student is late repeatedly, I will count the excessive tardiness as an absence. If the student leaves the class and not come back after the break, I will count this as an absence.

 

Total maximum attendance points = 100 points for perfect attendance

 

MAKE-UP POLICIES:

 

No make ups will be allowed for homework, quizzes, tests and other assignments.  Only exceptions can a student have a make up such as:

 

1) Your required participation in BCC school events (such as BCC sport events) or High School school events if the student is in the Running Start program.  Please submit me a note of your BCC school/HS school schedule and a signature of your sport coach/program director that sponsor the event

 

2) Accidents or other illness that require you to be confined in home/hospital setting.  For that, I require you to submit a doctor’s note. 

 

3) Death in your family.  For that, I need you to submit me a note from a funeral director. 

 

In case if you meet these exceptions, it is your responsibility to approach me and make arrangements to schedule a make-up day/time. 

 

ASL 101-E CLASS WEBSITE:

 

 It is the Student’s responsibility to check the class website frequently for resources and class materials. 

 

www.bcc.ctc.edu/artshum/materials

 

Click on Fall Quarter 2006

Click on World Languages

Click on American Sign Languages

                            Click on ASL 101-E (Willis, M) (3:00-5:10)

 

 

NO VOICES/NO CELLULAR PHONES:

 

ASL is best mastered if the students turn off their voices because by not using voices will enable the students to develop better receptive ASL skills.  This is the reason why I prohibit students to use voices at all times.  You can use your voice only during the break.  Whispering is not allowed. You are expected to assist your classmates and facilitate their effective learning by letting them wrestle with their own questions.   Whispering answers to them do not help them learn anything .I will give 2 warnings to students who use voice during class.  For 1st warning, I will give a verbal warning and write the warning on paper and if the students use voice for 2nd time again, I will ask the student to please leave the class for the day. 

 

Students are not permitted to use cellular phones during the class for the reason that cellular phones do disrupt the class. 

 

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT:

 

All BCC students are required to adhere to BCC Policy on Student Code of Conduct.  If you are uncertain of what is the BCC Policy on Student Code of Conduct, please go to http://www.bcc.ctc.edu/catalog/policies/studentcode.asp or go to BCC Student Services Department to obtain the 2006-2007 College Catalog.  In starting, I will give you the benefit of the doubt that you as an adult can handle responsibility for your actions.  I will expect courtesy, attentiveness, and a willingness to learn.  In so doing, you will earn my respect as a responsible adult and be treated accordingly.  I will not tolerate any ridicule, harassment, distracting noise or behavior, cell-phone use, whispering, insults, cruelty.  Sometimes, in class, when we make signing mistakes that these mistakes can be funny and laughter follows naturally, good-natured laughter is welcomed, especially where we learn to laugh at ourselves – with our classmates not AT them.  Keep in mind that no one feels free to take risks in an environment where they fear being ridiculed or criticized where you, yourself, feel free to make mistakes, and find understanding and support from those around you. 

 

ACCOMMODATION/ACCESSIBILITY:

 

If you require accommodation based on a documented disability, emergency medical information to share, or need special arrangements in case of emergency evacuation, please make an appointment with me as soon as possible.  You will find that Bellevue Community College has many resources for its students with learning differences or disabilities have many options for developing strategies that for academic success.

 

If you would like to inquire about becoming a DSS student, you may call 564-2498 or go in person to the DSS (Disability Support Services) program office at B-132 or check out their website (http://www.bcc.ctc.edu/dss).

 

INCLEMENT WEATHER INFORMATION:

 

In case of inclement weather, check the status of BCC opening/closing by going to web: http://status.bcc.ctc.edu or call (425) 401-6680 to obtain recorded message regarding the status of BCC opening/closing. In case of the inclement weather on the day when the class is taking the test, the test will be postponed till the next class. 

 

ASL CAN BE FUN!!!!!!!!!!!:

 

American Sign Language is said to be one of the most beautiful languages in the world.  It literally is an art.  It is a visual-spatial language which enables you to express yourself in 3-D.  In ASL, it is very natural for students to make mistakes.  By learning from mistakes students to master ASL much faster than they would by trying to avoid them.  Learning ASL also can be fun!  We will have lot of group activities and play games. 

 

HOLIDAY DATES/NO CLASSES HELD ON THESE DATES:

 

Wednesday, October 11, 2006 (College Issues Day – No class)

Monday October 30, 2006 (Prof. Development Day – No class)

Friday, November 10, 2006 (Staff Prof. Dev. Day – No class)

Thursday, November 23, 2006 (Thanksgiving Holiday)

Friday November 24, 2006 (Thanksgiving Holiday)