Course Overview
The aim of this course is to introduce learners to the basics of British Sign Language. Teaching begins by exploring the visual-gestural modality of human language. You will learn about deaf people and their language and culture. There is an emphasis on building vocabulary relating to a wide range of topics, including fingerspelling, eating and drinking, transport, directions, holiday, family, hobbies and interests, work and school.
This course is delivered using a total immersion method. This means all classes are delivered in BSL and are a 'voice off' environment.
Your teacher will use a variety of teaching and learning methods to cater for all learning styles and to meet the needs of all learners. The course is designed to be fun, engaging and meaningful and will give you the opportunity to practise your productive and receptive skills by means of group work, pair work, role-plays, games, presentations and discussions.
The Level 1 BSL course is useful for anybody who is in regular contact with deaf people, be it through work or social life.
Course Content
Introduction to British Sign Language
Topics Covered:
- Manual alphabet (finger spelling)
- Attracting the attention of a deaf person/deaf people
- Meeting familiar and unfamiliar people
- Requesting clarification
- Leave taking
- Basic numbers
- Weather
- Travelling
- Giving and describing simple directions
Conversational British Sign Language
Topics Covered:
- Describing people
- Giving and receiving information about people
- Describing animals
- Describing objects and furniture
- Locations
- Using the local number system
- Give information and ask about age
- Telling the time
- Ask for and given information about money
- Days, weeks and years (the calendar)
- Describing interests and activities at home
- Describing day-to-day activities of self and others
- Sharing information about food and drink
Communicate in British Sign Language about everyday life
Topics Covered:
- Giving and asking for directions in a building
- Describing places and buildings
- Travelling
- Giving and asking for information about everyday life
- Giving and asking for information about people
- Commenting on and describing the weather
- Using the local number system
- Telling the time
- Asking for and giving calendar information
Assessments
There are a total of 3 assessments for this qualification:
| Unit | Topic | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| 101 | Introduction to BSL | Conversation with teacher (4-5 minutes) |
| 102 | Conversational skills | Conversation with teacher (4-5 minutes) |
| 103 | Everyday life | Conversation with teacher (4-5 minutes) |
Entry Requirements
There are no entry requirements for this course. This course is suitable for complete beginners who want to learn British Sign Language.
Progression
After you complete this course, you can move on to the Signature Level 2 Certificate in British Sign Language course.