ASL 1 Grand Rapids (in person)

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services is offering American Sign Language (ASL)Classes!

See the “true colors” of American Sign Language during this eight-week course! Did you know that ASL is more than just signs? It is a visual language created by the Deaf that uses signs, expressions, and unique linguistic features to communicate. ASL is its own language with its own grammar and sentence structure. It also incorporates important elements of Deaf culture and community! Throughout the eight weeks of ASL 1, you will continue to learn new signs and how to use them properly to communicate with the Deaf community and others who sign. Each week you will also discuss Deaf culture and how it has shaped ASL as a language. Seats are limited, so register today!

Classes meet once a week on Monday nights from 6-8 pm for eight weeks. Classes will meet at the Special Olympics Michigan Building - 160 68th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49548.

Each week the instructor will teach new signs and go through practice exercises with the students.

Class materials will be provided at the first class.

There is a book that must be purchased separately. "A Basic Course in American Sign Language” by Tom Humphries, Carol Padden, Terrence J. O'Rourke and Frank A. Paul (illustrator). ISBN: 9780932666420. This book includes exercises that are used for homework practice. It is used for all D&HHS ASL classes. You can purchase the book online through Amazon or other retailers.

https://www.amazon.com/Basic-Course-American-Sign-Language/dp/0932666426/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=978-0932666420&qid=1590014706&s=books&sr=1-1

IMPORTANT NOTE: This is a voices-off class, allowing students to learn through full immersion. We believe that immersion is the best way to learn any new language and culture. Take on this challenge! This class is a safe space, and the instructor wants you to be successful. If you need them to slow down or repeat themselves, just ask! You can use the chat box feature to ask questions and communicate during class.

Thank you for registering for an ASL class with D&HHS! We look forward to seeing you in class!

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services is a nonprofit agency in West Michigan with the mission of providing equal communication access, education, and advocacy to the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing in pursuit of all life's opportunities. Any profit from our classes are used to fund our programs that support those in the communities we serve. Please visit our website, www.deafhhs.org, to learn more about our agency. Thank you for your support.

The cost is $115 per student until October 1,2024. After that the cost is $125 per student. No refunds will be given after the first day of class. Only the cost of the class will be refunded. THE EVENTBRITE FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE. For students under 18 please contact [email protected] for more details. If the class should be cancelled for any reason a refund will be given.

Questions should be directed to Erica Chapin at 616-732-7358, or email [email protected].

American Sign Language Interpreters are professionals who have completed intensive training in their field and are licensed to work according to Michigan Law (PA 204). The Federal Americans with Disabilities Act guarantees a Deaf or Hard of Hearing person the right to effective communication in the workplace and in places of public accommodation; this requirement is not met by the use of an unlicensed signer.

There will be no class the week of Thanksgiving!

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