How hard are college Sign Language classes?

Question

Hi, I just turned 15 and I am taking the beginning two ASL classes at my local community college for foreign language credit. I already know about 200 signs, alphabet and numbers up to 20. Has anyone already taken a beginning ASL class? How was it?

P.S. - The classes are called SLS-1000 and SLS-1010. (A.K.A. ASL I and ASL II.)

THANKS A BUNCH!!!

Answer 1

I teach sign language at the local university. ASL classes are harder than most people think. On my first day of class I have several people drop out because even though I am hearing I teach in sign 85-90% of the time. In a good class you not only learn vocabulary but you learn how to use the vocab in sentences. For example in English I would say, "I am going to the store to buy some food." But in ASL you would sign "STORE I GO FOR-FOR FOOD BUY WILL." ASL is not only vocabulary it is structure. Along with that you will learn about Deaf culture. Many students think ASL is English but with signs for the words, and there is a lot more to the language then that.

But at the same time when I started learning at the age of 7 or 8 it was easier for me because I am such a visual learner. I would never say it is easy but it is easier than spoken language for some. If you are a visual learner and you don't mind getting up in front of the class every now and then, then I don't think you will have a problem with the class and you will love it.