|
Grades: 8-12
Credit: One
Prerequisite: Level 1 or equivalency test
Course Description
Students continue to develop proficiency in American Sign Language. They learn
to function in real-life situations using more complex language structures and a
wider range of vocabulary. Students continue to explore as they study the themes
of Home Life, Student Life, Leisure Time, and Vacation and Travel.
This course’s primary goals, aligned with Virginia and national standards, are to:
•Communicate in American Sign Language
Students function in a variety of practical settings using signed communication as well
as non-manual gestures and knowledge of Deaf culture.
•Understand other cultures
Students demonstrate an understanding of traditions, customs, beliefs, and cultural
contributions and how these elements relate to language.
•Connect with other disciplines and acquire information
Students connect information about the language and cultures they are learning with
concepts studied in other subject areas.
•Develop insight into their own language and culture
Through study of language and culture, students recognize, compare, and contrast
language concepts as well as cultural perspectives, practices, and products.
•Participate in the global community
Students use signed communication to communicate with people within the Deaf
community (Deaf and Hard of Hearing), to improve their own communication skills and
to enhance their view of themselves as citizens of the world.
Each topic addressed in the Program of Studies has progress indicators defining what
students will be able to do. For example, under the theme Student Life, the topic
Health and Fitness specifies that students will be able to discuss fitness and exercise,
exchange information about maintaining good health, and comprehend information
about maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Essential vocabulary and language structures
are presented to students within the context of the themes and topics.
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) has developed and uses the Performance
Assessment for Language Students (PALS) program. Performance assessments are
conducted routinely throughout the year and are rated using PALS criteria (rubrics)
developed by FCPS foreign language teachers. The end-of-year assessment again
uses the PALS performance criteria.
For additional information, including resources for students, see the FCPS Foreign
Language Home Page at: http://www.fcps.edu/DIS/OHSICS/forlang/.
|
