American Sign Language
Ryan High School
Instructor: Mrs. Cherie Montgomery
E-Mail: [email protected]
Classroom phone: 940-369-3183
Room 239
Conference Period: A/B 5 (3:15-4:10)
Tutorials: Tues. 8:00-8:45 a.m. and Thurs. 4:10—4:45 p.m.
Course and Description: ASL 2 students will develop novice-to-intermediate level proficiency, …”dealing
with familiar topics, should understand ASL phrases receptively and respond expressively with learned
material; sign learned words, concepts, phrases, and sentences; recognize the importance of
communication and how it applies to the American Deaf culture; and recognize the importance of
accuracy of expression by knowing the components of ASL”. TEKS Chapter 114.35(b)(7)
Classes will consist of direct instruction, watching videos (primarily native signers), individual work,
numerous interactive activities, signing projects etc.
Target Language: In this class, it means that we will work with voices off with increasing frequency as the
year progresses. We will be using visual/gestural forms of communicating instead of our voices.
Texts/resources: Master ASL, Signing Naturally, American Sign Language; A Teacher’s Resource and a
variety of videos.
Class Supplies (required):
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Binder/folder-optional. This folder can be kept and be used for ASL 1- 4. Notes, and other materials
will be available electronically, as well.
# 2 pencils (pens are an option, but pencil is required for all glossing)
Notebook paper – no ruffled edges turned in please
Optional: Box of tissue – We will share these, so please bring a box or two.
Classroom Expectation:
Respect the learning, each other, the school and yourself.
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Participate, cooperate and do the work! Attend class, do the activities. ASL is seen and signed, so
participation is essential for learning. Use time appropriately.
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Homework – practice every night! You will become a more fluent signer! Teacher produced videos
and suggested websites will be discussed in class.
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Do your own amazing work! ASL classes will follow Ryan cheating & plagiarism policies.
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Cells and other electronics: ASL requires eyes and hands, so ASL student cell phones will be taken
up if seen in class. See Ryan rules.
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Gum, food and drinks are not allowed at Ryan. This rule stands in the ASL class room. You are
welcome to bring a plain water bottle. (no sugars)
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School appropriate attire is necessary in the classroom and in video projects. See Ryan rules.
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Bells! Bells start the class and the ending bell is a reminder to me that class is ending. Students
remain seated until dismissed.
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Restrooms are close. Please us them during passing periods. If there is a medical need for special
accommodations, let me know privately.
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School Rules are made for a reason! I choose to follow them and ask you to, too.
Languages Other Than English (LOTE) Department Grading Policy
* Major Summative Assessments 60%
* Minor Summative Assessments 40%
Major Summative Assessments
Major Assessments are designed to evaluate understanding and skills. They take place at the end of a
learning unit incorporating what has previously been evaluated in the unit’s minor assessments.
Examples: unit tests, essays, projects, presentations, research papers, guided conversations,
comprehension or interpretation of video texts, and written assessments on American Deaf culture and
history.
Minor Summative Assessments
Minor assessments are designed to check for understanding addressing of a smaller set of learning
objectives as compared to major assessments. Examples: quizzes, brief versions of the elements listed
in Major Assessments.
Formative Assessments
Formative Assessments will be given continually. They are for practice so that the student and teacher
to gage the success/progress of learning. It is “designed to provide direction for improvement and/or
adjustment of teaching and learning activities for individual students or for a whole class.” Formative
assessments are not reflected in the final grade.
Reassessments:
A student may reassess a minor/major summative assessment only after the student has demonstrated
new learning to justify a reassessment. This acknowledges that students process and master material at
different rates. The teacher will make certain the student knows what specific activities and relearning
need to take place in order to reassess, as well as any other requirements to reassess. The reassessment
must be completed within 10 days of the primary assessment is posted, or shown/accessed in class.
Semester and Final Exams will not qualify for reassessment.
An assessment may be reassessed one time. Reassessments are worth full credit. In order to reassess, a
student must do the following:
1. Sign up on tutorial schedule. (in classroom) The time scheduled must be within 10 days. (see
above)
2. Complete/submit the Reassessment Assignment, successfully. (on Canvas, unless otherwise
specified)
3. Come in on reassessment/tutorial time, as previously scheduled and within the 10 day time limit.
Missing a scheduled reassessment appointment, results in losing the opportunity to reassess.
Make-Up Work:
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Students are responsible for any work missed and arranging a time to take assessments.
Students are allowed, the number of days absent, plus one additional day to complete work
missed.
Make-up work is not allowed during class, except as time permits and class time specifically given.
Non-Academic Work/Behaviors:
Work or behaviors that are not supported by the standards are considered non-academic. There
have been many misunderstandings regarding what this means for students at Ryan. Students may still
have homework, practice pieces, etc. Students will still have due dates and deadlines.
Student actions that impede the learning process such as: not completing assignments/not participating
in class, chronically turning in late work, etc. may be met with disciplinary measures that include, but are
not limited to: parent contact, teacher detention/tutorial, school detention, Saturday School, ISSC, etc.,
as detailed in student handbook.