The ASL III Class, taught by Pamela Baker, is an American Sign Language course designed for students in grades 8th through 12th. This course builds upon the foundational knowledge gained in ASL I and ASL II, further developing students' proficiency in American Sign Language. The curriculum focuses on enhancing students' communication skills, cultural understanding, and fluency in ASL.

Throughout ASL III, students will engage in a variety of interactive activities and exercises to strengthen their receptive and expressive signing abilities. They will expand their vocabulary, learn more complex grammatical structures, and practice using ASL in various contexts. The course also emphasizes the importance of non-manual markers, facial expressions, and body language in conveying meaning in ASL.

In addition to language skills, ASL III aims to deepen students' understanding of Deaf culture and history. Students will explore the rich cultural heritage of the Deaf community, including its art, literature, and contributions to society. They will also examine the challenges faced by Deaf individuals and the importance of advocating for accessibility and inclusivity.

Benefits of ASL III:

1. Enhanced Communication Skills: ASL III equips students with advanced signing abilities, allowing them to engage in more complex conversations and express themselves fluently in American Sign Language. This proficiency opens up opportunities for effective communication with Deaf individuals and fosters inclusivity.

2. Cultural Understanding: By delving into Deaf culture and history, students gain a deeper appreciation for the unique perspectives and experiences of the Deaf community. This cultural understanding promotes empathy, respect, and a broader worldview.

3. Career Opportunities: Proficiency in ASL can open doors to various career paths. ASL interpreters, teachers, social workers, and counselors are in high demand, and ASL III provides a solid foundation for pursuing these professions. Additionally, knowledge of ASL can be an asset in fields such as healthcare, customer service, and entertainment.

4. Personal Growth: Learning ASL III fosters personal growth by challenging students to think and communicate in new ways. It enhances cognitive skills, improves memory, and promotes creativity. Additionally, students develop a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence as they master a new language.

5. Inclusivity and Advocacy: ASL III empowers students to become advocates for accessibility and inclusivity. By understanding the challenges faced by Deaf individuals and the importance of equal communication access, students can actively contribute to creating a more inclusive society.

Overall, ASL III for grades 8th through 12th offers students the opportunity to deepen their ASL skills, gain cultural understanding, and prepare for future career paths while fostering personal growth and promoting inclusivity.

***Prerequisites include the successful completion of ASL I and ASL II, or teacher approval***

Textbook:

A Basic Course in American Sign Language (2nd Edition) ***this is the same text as ASL I and ASL II

ISBN 978-0932666437 or 978-0932666420 (spiral-bound)

Materials:

Folder with pockets and brads

Pen/Pencil

Highlighter

Homework Requirements:

According to the Center's recommendation, high school students are advised to spend 2-4 hours per week on homework. This time allocation is considered appropriate to ensure a balance between academic responsibilities and other extracurricular activities. It allows students to consolidate their learning, complete assignments, and develop a deeper understanding of the subjects they are studying. However, it is important to note that individual student needs may vary, and some students may require more or less time to complete their homework effectively.

Students will be required to keep a practice log for required minutes of studying/practicing each week