BSL Level 1

A fun/academic course like no other. A chance to learn how to communicate without losing your voice and learn the fascinating language of the Deaf Community. It leads to a qualification which would be an asset to anyone's CV.
This course would suit you if you like to meet people, want to communicate with Deaf people at work or socially, or like learning a language in general.

Option of course times (60hrs):
10 full days 9.30am - 4.30pm / 24 sessions x 2.5 hours / 20 sessions for 3 hours.
Venue: Sign Studio has its own venue based in Lancashire where they run courses throughout the year that you can attend. It can also deliver its courses at venues throughout the country. Within your own premises or by booking a suitable venue for you.
What is this course all about? Learning to communicate in B.S.L. at a basic level. Having conversations on various topics being able to understand what is being signed and responding appropriately. You will also learn some basic grammar and syntax. You will also have opportunities to attend local Deaf events as well as visiting the local Deaf Club and interpreted performances although this is not a course requirement. No previous experience is necessary, but It is important that participants are willing to take personal responsibility for their learning by the disposing of inhibitions towards using their hands, facial expression and body language to communicate - not their voices. Tutors will give feedback during activities and you will be able ask as questions if you have any queries. You will also be involved in a simulation mock exam, prior to CACDP’s exam.
All equipment and resources will be provided be Sign Studio. Although having access to a video recorder, DVD and internet is a benefit, but not a necessity. Textbooks and resources will be recommended, but do not have to be purchased
Exam Information: The exam is 20 mins and there are 3 sections:
Conversation through Roleplay
Answering 12 questions on a story the examiner has signed to you
Signing a picture story for 1 minute.
Homework: will be set every week. It will consist of one of the following and should take you 15-20 minutes (i) Reading information. (ii) Preparing a signed piece on a specific topic e.g. conversation through role-play or a picture story. (iii) Watching videos (iv) Translating English to BSL. Preparing activities similar to the exam. Some students find it beneficial to meet outside class although this is not compulsory.
What do I expect to learn? Sign vocabulary linked to certain topics e.g. family, appearance, clothes, colours, size, sport, interests, animals, family, prepositions and pronouns, numbers, money, time, age, careers, weather, transport, emotions, places, countries, cities, buildings, directions, furniture, food & useful conversational vocabulary. How to converse in sign at a basic level. You will also be learning about BSL grammatical features e.g. directional verbs, multi-channel signs, signs in context, timelines, role shift, classifiers, non-manual features, placement, modification, BSL syntax, question forms, location, affirmation, negation. In preparation for your exam you will complete conversations through roleplay, answering questions on a signed story and signing a picture story yourself for one minute.
What can I expect to gain? A Nationally recognised British Sign Language Certificate if you pass the exam. Once learnt you will remember these basic skills for the rest of your life. You never know when you may bump into a Deaf person and use them.
Course costs: Differ depending on group sizes, location and venue. Assessment fees will be included. Please contact us to discuss your requirements and you will find we have very reasonable rates.