Class Expectations

WELCOME!

My goal is to provide a supportive, engaging environment where students don’t just learn signs, but truly grow in their understanding and use of American Sign Language through interaction and a fully hands-on learning experience!

Classes are designed specifically for homeschool students and focus on building strong, lasting ASL skills through interactive lessons, practice, and community.

Homework, Quizzes, and Projects

Course expectations vary by level, but all classes are encouraged to practice consistently for real growth in ASL.

Intro to ASL:

• Homework assignments:

There is no homework for this class! Students will learn and practice everything they need during our weekly class sessions. Families are always encouraged to practice signs together at home, but no assignments will be sent home. We will use the Moodle platform so students (and parents) can watch lesson videos and practice at home with an instructor-made video. These are great ways to continue ASL at home and also see what your child is learning. I always encourage parents to learn alongside their child so they can practice signing at home, running errands, really anywhere!

• Badges Instead of Grades:

Rather than receiving traditional grades, students will earn ASL Achievement Badges as they master new skills. These badges give parents a fun and visual way to see their child's progress throughout the year. Each badge represents a skill or topic that the student has successfully demonstrated, such as the alphabet, numbers, colors, emotions, and more!

ASL Level 1:

• Homework assignments: Assignments are optional, but strongly encouraged, especially for students who would like to receive a grade at the end of the course. While assignments are not required for the course, meaningful progress in language learning comes from consistent practice beyond our weekly class time.

• Projects: Students may also be given occasional projects, such as All About Me posters or introduction interviews. These projects are required, as they prepare students to actively participate in signing activities during class. Intro to ASL students may be asked to bring in a favorite toy for show and tell and use sign to explain their toy.

• Quizzes: There will be several quizzes or tests throughout the course. These are ways for me to assess the students' level and to make sure I am not moving too fast (or too slow). It is a way to gage the students' learning comprehension and to make adjustments when necessary. These will be put into a gradebook however, if you are not collecting grades, you can simply ignore the points.

ASL Level 2 and Level 3:
At these levels, expectations increase. Homework, quizzes, and projects are required and are an essential part of the learning process. Students may be asked to attend a Deaf event, an interpreted performance, or a church service, followed by a written reflection to deepen their understanding of Deaf culture and real-world ASL use.

ASL Level 3 Performance Requirement:
Level 3 students may complete a live interpreting performance at a local Tucson church. This includes interpreting one worship song (Christian, non-denominational) as a culminating, real-world application of their skills.

Attendance

Consistent attendance is essential for success in ASL. Each class builds on the previous one, and because language learning is highly interactive, students gain the most through active participation during our time together. Missing class can make it difficult to keep up with new signs, concepts, and in-class practice. Regular attendance helps students stay confident, engaged, and progressing steadily in their ASL skills.

• Classes are held in person. However, due to unexpected circumstances such as illness, emergencies, or scheduling conflicts students may be asked to watch lessons online through Canvas in lieu of in-person instruction for that week. I do not anticipate this happening often, however I want to let parents know there is a possibility due to unforseen situations. I will be sure to communicate by email AND through Canvas announcements.

• There is a date scheduled where students will have an "in-home" lesson day (in the month of February).

Moodle Platform

All courses are hosted on Moodle, and students are expected to have an account and check announcements regularly. *Parents, be sure you are checking announcements and have notifications set*

This is where all of my communication will occur including announcements for field trips, cancelled classes, special projects, etc. 

Each week, I will also provide a variety of learning materials including videos, practice activities, and video resources so students can continue engaging with ASL throughout the week. This helps turn our once-a-week class into an ongoing, immersive learning experience.

Parents staying in Classroom

Because our classroom space is limited, we kindly ask that parents remain on site in the main sanctuary area during class time or return for pickup when class concludes.

In certain situations, accommodations can be made for a parent to remain in the classroom with their child. However, student seating and learning space must take priority so that all enrolled students have room to participate comfortably. There are many times thorughout the class, where students will get up out of their seats and move around.

I understand that some students may need additional support, and I am happy to work with families when needed. If you feel your child truly requires a parent present, please reach out so we can discuss accommodations. However, if your child is able to participate independently, we encourage parents to step outside the classroom. This helps create space for all students and allows children the opportunity to build confidence and engage with their peers.

Our classes are intentionally kept small to create a positive and interactive learning environment, and we appreciate your understanding and support