Sign Language - Basics

About the Tutor: Joanne Thomson

View all courses taught by Joanne Thomson here

The emphasis is on signed communication and Sign Language will be used most of the time. A variety of teaching strategies will be used - demonstration and explanation by the tutor with signs, repeated by students, small group work and pair work, whole class exercises, videos and games and handouts to take home.

Initial assessment is carried out at the beginning of the course to assess individual skill level. Each student's starting point is recorded on an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) and targets are set to aid development of the skill. These are revisited from time to time during the course to monitor and record progress.

File/folder and pen/pencil for your notes. There are no set textbooks for this course but students may wish to buy books and CD-Roms or sign up to training websites for home study. Please ask the tutor for advice.

Students can progress to the Sign Language – Introductory course or may alternatively wish to start on the Signature accreditation route to gain a nationally recognised qualification Signature Level 1 Award in British Sign Language. The tutor will advise or visit www.kent.adulteducation.co.uk.
During your course your tutor will offer guidance in relation to your personal progression route. Courses are designed to progress you to further study or into employment. In addition some of our courses support access to Further and Higher Education opportunities. KAE web site has information about these courses and developing your own business. Please speak with your tutor if you have an interest in self-employment or an interest in developing a career. We can also help you access the National Careers service.

No previous experience is required. For anyone who is interested in learning British Sign Language and how to communicate with Deaf people.