Level 1 classes: this BSL course is suitable for those with no prior knowledge of the language who would like to communicate better with family, friends and others with hearing difficulties. It covers conversational BSL. At the end of the course students will be able to produce and understand basic signs used in everyday social interactions and be able to hold a social conversation to exchange information about themselves, their families and occupation along with general chit chat.
In this course we also focus on Deaf Awareness including a practical to experience a degree of hearing loss personally to give insight into some of the difficulties the Deaf face in everyday life. We examine Deaf Culture and etiquette and how that differs from hearing culture and the barriers this can raise and how these can be overcome.
The structure of this course allows students to have an overview of the Deaf community and the challenges they face which could not be covered in an exam course, however it is also an ideal springboard into taking the Signature Level 1 BSL Certificate at a later date.This is NOT a Signature Level 1 course.
Term duration: 9x weekly classes, Monday evenings, 6:15pm to 8:30pm
Please note: no class on Mon 26 Oct and Mon 7 December. Your last class will finish at 8:15pm.
Course contentincludes:
deaf awareness practical
fingerspelling alphabet
deaf awareness, culture and etiquette
greetings
questions
emotions
numbers
calendar and timelines within BSL
colours
family
animals
weather
transport
occupations
places withinthecommunity
working withanInterpreter
Please note that we will adapt to the pace of the group so the course content so the listed content may be subject to change.
Extended learning will be set between classes which will usually consist of practising the new signs learnt at the previous lesson and the conversation that is set each week. We do understand that everyday life is very busy, so you are under no obligation to complete the extended learning. However, it is strongly encouraged to allow you to make the most progress and benefit fully from the course.
Each week you will be encouraged to take an active part in group and paired activities. We aim to establish a friendly inclusive atmosphere which makes learning fun, and where students can express themselves freely and in confidence in a supportive environment. Come and join us!
