6 Reasons for Signing in Classes

6 Reasons for using American Sign Language in any Class

1. American Sign Language is Beautiful

ASL is a beautiful language!  Have you watched DPan's music videos?  This ASL music video of John Mayer's "Waiting on the World to Change" tackles some of the negative stereotypes people in the Deaf & HH (Hard of Hearing) community face.

ASL is making its way into mainstream, so be inclusive, friends!

• Shape of Water
  
• Switched at Birth
• Sound of Metal
• Coda

Not only are signs beautiful in movement, they also make for fantastic posters. From "Welcome signs" to visual schedules for those with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), you can use ASL to elevate your classroom decor.

2. Increase Communication

Children want to be seen, heard, & acknowledged.  Having non-verbal communication options allows students to communicate their thoughts, feelings, & needs as individuals.  

For example, Let's say your students know 20 signs with posters for reference:

1. Sit
2. Line Up
3. Finish/Done
4. Ready
5. Yes
6. No
7. Help
8. Question
9. Answer
10. Applause/yay
11. Me too
12. Connection
13. Water/drink
14. Bathroom
15. Wash Hands
16. Thank you
17. Music
    
18. Art/Draw
19. Book
20. Play/PE

After a quick overview of a concept, you can ask students how they're feeling.  Students may answer that they're "ready" to go, have a "question" or simply need "help". 

From there, dismiss the ready kids to get to work, invite the ones that need help to a specific section, and on your way there, answer student questions aloud.  As your students rest into this system, they'll be able to discern their question needs from their all out need for help.  

3. Boost Autonomy

How many times do you address the same concerns?

• Bathroom breaks
• Wanting water
• Lost pencils
• "Ooh, me too!"

And if it's the last one...buckle up!  The younger the kids, the more bizarre those connections are, right?

*Finishes background knowledge about a folk song from France*  

Kid 1: *Raises hand* Did you know it's my mom's birthday soon?

Me: Happy early birthday to your mom.  I called on you because I thought you might have raised your hand to share a connection to this song from France.

Kid 1: Oh, um...I like French fries!

Me: Thank you for sharing.  I can see how you made that connection.  Alright class, let's begin.

Kid 2: I like French fries too!  

Me: Thank you for sharing.  Okay, friends, let's sing.  Please repeat after me.

That leads me to the 4th benefit:

4. Diminish Disruptions

Imagine how the above scenario would have played out had your students had access to signs:

 

*Finishes background knowledge about a folk song from France*  

Kid 1: *Signs "Connection"*  

Me: I see some of us have connections and I can't wait to hear them after we learn this song.  Thank you for saving those precious thoughts, friends.  Please repeat after me.

The benefits don't stop there, though.  

When I'm singing as a class or directing an ensemble, my focus is in a million places; dynamics, curricular objectives, the clock, tempo, etc.  So when someone needs to use the restroom, it is unrealistic to stop everyone else to address that individual need.  That kiddo can sign "Bathroom" and watch for my "yes" or "no sign (or even a nod) before excusing themselves.

5. More Learning Time

Imagine all the extra time you gain without addressing each connection, answer repeated questions, or pencil that vanished.  Magically, of course.

That's it.  No long winded explanation.  You gain back precious time.  Period.

6. Create Consistency

Having a classroom management system in place that incorporates American Sign Language is not just beautiful, fun, or inclusive.  It just makes sense!

Teaching children to watch you has obvious benefits in a musical setting, but it is great for any class!  

• Boosted eye contact is a sign of respect, though not all students will be able to make eye contact.
• A simple sign to line up is quick & efficient
• Using signs to indicate the next class will help students plan necessary materials.  

Routines are important and hand signs (especially visual reminders) enhance virtually any system you have in place.  With the growing number of students with gaps in executive functioning skills, finding ways to support students is equally as important as the content you're responsible for teaching.

Are there any other signs you'd like to see included?  Let me know in the comments below.

Best,

Jaime