Description

In this one-time class learners will learn how to ask descriptive questions about animals in American Sign Language through playing a guessing game. This lesson will start with a warm welcome where everyone can introduce themselves and explain why they are interested in ASL. 

Learners will learn how to say the following signs:
- animal, ready, have, your, my, big, small, medium, hair/fur, live, water, land, which, cold, warm, hot, yes, no, friendly, dangerous, fly, walk, swim, yes, no.

Learners will learn how to put the above signs into phrases such as (and more):
Does your animal live in water or on land, which?    -land.
Is your animal friendly?                                             -Yes.
Does your animal have fur?                                      -yes.
Does your animal live in a hot area?                         -No, my animal lives in the cold.
Is your animal big or small, which?                           - big.                                      
Is your animal a _____?                                            -Yes.

Animal signs will be: dolphin, shark, horse, elephant, egal, flamingo, dog, cat, bunny, jellyfish, butterfly, lion, wolf, octopus, chicken. 

-- Getting started --
Step by step learners will first learn the vocabulary needed for each phrase. They will be guided through the hand shapes of each sign and given fun and creative mnemonic tips to help them remember these signs. Mnemonics are devices such as patterns, ideas, or associations that assist in remembering something. Once the vocabulary is practiced for a phrase, the learners will then practice signing the phrase accurately. This will give them a taste of basic ASL grammar and how it differs from English. As the learners gather more phrases, we will be able to start playing the game. 

I will pick a learner at random to start us off with the game. The rest of us will take turns asking questions trying to guess the animal that the learner is thinking about. I will guide learners if I see signs of struggle and suggest questions that they may want to ask. Learners will not only learn how to ask questions but be able to understand questions in sign and respond to them through my guidance and support. Everyone will get a chance to take turns and ask questions politely throughout the game. 

The class will wrap up with some things that they learned, what their favorite sign is and any lingering questions or comments. 

*Some previous experience is recommended such as knowing basic signs or knowing how to introduce yourself in ASL to get the best out of the game. 

Teaching Methodology:
I will give all the resources needed for the game; vocabulary. I will then show how to form useful questions and answers needed. We will practice these phrases and then play the game!!  
Mistakes are most definitely welcome and expected - I will continue to teach and guide students throughout the game. 
Games can be a great way of picking up a language or almost any skill. It intrigues the mind and allows learned information to be used and practiced right away in a fun and relaxing environment.