ASL

American Sign Language (ASL), visual-gestural language used by most of the deaf community in the United States and Canada. ASL is a natural language with a structure quite different from spoken English. It is not a manual-gestural representation of spoken English, nor is it pantomime. Instead, ASL is a full language, with all of the properties of spoken natural languages, but one that has developed independently of and differently from English.

American Sign Language


The first year introduces students to American Sign Language and Deaf culture. Grammatical principles of the language are introduced. Visual-gestural communication techniques are used to develop basic signing skills. The course emphasis will be on receptive skills and developing expressive skills. The student will be able to communicate basic language functions such as introducing oneself, asking for and giving information, asking for directions, making requests and talking about activities. Videotapes support observation and practice.

Students will continue developing the skills from ASL I while focusing with greater emphasis on expressive signing proficiency and comprehension of signed narratives. Students participate in various language functions such as talking about life events, nationalities and family history and describing objects. The activities take place in small group discussion, role-play, short stories and dialogues. Videotaped activities of a variety of signers are practiced to improve receptive skills. Cultural and language behaviors are studied. Sign language expressions are developed.

Did you watch the superbowl?

You could learn to sign an entire song in ASL just like Warren Snipe at the Super Bowl!

We live near Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C., the only Deaf college in the world. We have a great opportunity to collaborate with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community in the DMV!

We would love to have you in our program!