Sign Language: Visual Communication For Students

Classroom sign language supports communication accessibility. Visual communication enhances student engagement. Sign language vocabulary integration enriches special education strategies.

Imagine a world where everyone has a seat at the table, where no voice is unheard, and where communication flows freely, breaking down barriers like a wrecking ball through a brick wall! That’s the vision we’re chasing in education, and sign language is one of the most powerful tools we have to make it a reality.

Think of sign language as a superpower – a way to connect with others, express ideas, and build relationships, regardless of whether you can hear or speak. It’s not just a language; it’s a bridge, a key to unlocking potential, and a lifeline for creating truly inclusive and effective learning environments. It allows students to learn to communicate in any learning situation.

And it’s not just for our deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Believe it or not, sign language can do wonders for hearing students too! Studies have shown that learning sign language can boost cognitive skills, improve memory, and even enhance literacy. It’s like a mental workout that makes you smarter, more empathetic, and a better communicator overall.

So, buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a journey into the world of sign language in education. Consider this blog post your trusty guide, packed with everything you need to know to understand its importance, implement it effectively, and unlock the power of communication for all. This will provide a comprehensive guide to sign language for all.

Understanding American Sign Language (ASL): A Foundation for Communication

What Isn’t Just Waving Your Hands Around?

So, you’re thinking about diving into the world of sign language? Awesome! But first, let’s clear something up: American Sign Language (_ASL_) isn’t just a bunch of random gestures. It’s a fully developed, complex language with its own grammar, syntax, and cultural nuances. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t say English is just “mouth noises,” right? Same deal here. ASL has its own way of putting sentences together, using facial expressions, body language, and spatial awareness to convey meaning. It’s a visual language that’s as rich and expressive as any spoken language out there. It’s about more than simple signs. It’s about a vibrant community and culture, and unlocking a whole new world of communication.

From Humble Beginnings to Linguistic Recognition

Now, let’s hop in the DeLorean and take a trip back in time. The history of ASL is fascinating! It’s believed to have developed from a blend of French Sign Language (brought to America by Laurent Clerc) and indigenous sign languages used by Deaf communities in the US. The first school for the deaf in America, established in 1817, played a huge role in standardizing and spreading ASL.

For a long time, ASL wasn’t taken seriously as a “real” language. But thankfully, attitudes have changed! It’s now recognized as a distinct language with its own unique structure. You’ll find ASL classes in colleges and universities, and it’s even accepted as a foreign language credit in many places. Talk about progress! This recognition has been key to protecting the rights and preserving the cultural identity of the Deaf community.

ASL: A Sign of the Times (and Regions!)

Just like spoken languages have different dialects depending on where you are, ASL has regional variations too! A sign in New York might be slightly different from the same sign in California or Texas. These variations aren’t huge, but they’re definitely there.

Don’t let this scare you off, though! Think of it like ordering a “soda” versus a “pop” – you’ll still get your fizzy drink, even if the word is different. The core of ASL remains consistent, and context usually helps you figure things out. It’s all part of the fun of learning a new language, isn’t it?

Who Benefits? Key Stakeholders in Sign Language Education

Okay, picture this: You’re throwing a fantastic party, right? But it’s not just about the snacks (though, let’s be real, those are important). It’s about who’s there, the vibe they bring, and how everyone’s connected. Sign language education is kinda like that party. It’s not just about signs and fingerspelling. It’s about a whole bunch of awesome people, each with their own unique role and benefiting in their own way. Let’s dive into the guest list, shall we?

Students: The Stars of the Show

• For our deaf and hard-of-hearing students, sign language is, quite simply, a lifeline. It’s their gateway to unfettered communication, unlocking doors to academic success, boosting their social and emotional well-being, and giving them the confidence to truly shine. It’s about ensuring they have the same access to knowledge and connection as everyone else – period.
• And for our hearing students? Get this: learning sign language is like giving their brains a super-powered workout! It can improve cognitive skills, boost memory, and even make learning other languages easier. Plus, it fosters empathy and understanding, creating a more inclusive and compassionate generation. Talk about a win-win!

Teachers: The Guiding Lights

Teachers who embrace sign language are basically classroom rock stars. They’re able to reach a wider range of learners, build bridges of understanding, and create inclusive havens where every student feels valued. But it’s not magic; it takes effort. Think professional development, workshops, and maybe even a late-night YouTube binge of ASL tutorials. Access to resources and ongoing training is crucial to ensure teachers feel confident and supported on their sign language journey.

Sign Language Interpreters: The Communication Architects

Interpreters are the unsung heroes, the master communicators who weave seamless connections between the Deaf and hearing worlds. They’re not just translating words; they’re conveying meaning, emotion, and cultural nuance. But here’s the thing: qualifications matter. We’re talking certified, skilled professionals who adhere to a strict code of ethics. They ensure accurate and respectful communication, protecting the rights and dignity of everyone involved.

Paraeducators/Teacher Aides: The Classroom Allies

These supporting players are invaluable in the classroom, providing extra assistance to deaf and hard-of-hearing students. From reinforcing lessons to facilitating communication, they help create a more accessible learning environment. Clear role definition and specific training related to sign language and working with deaf students are crucial for them to be effective.

Parents/Guardians: The Home Team

For parents of deaf and hard-of-hearing children, learning sign language can be transformative. It opens up lines of communication, strengthens family bonds, and empowers them to advocate for their child’s needs. Even learning a few basic signs can make a world of difference. Access to resources, workshops, and support groups can help parents on their sign language journey and in supporting their child’s education.

Deaf Community Members: The Cultural Ambassadors

Imagine having a living, breathing encyclopedia of language and culture right in your classroom! Deaf community members serve as mentors, role models, and cultural ambassadors, enriching the learning experience for all students. Their presence fosters a sense of belonging and pride for deaf students, while also providing hearing students with valuable insights into Deaf culture. They are living proof of the beauty and richness of sign language.

School Administrators: The Policy Pioneers

It all starts at the top. School administrators play a crucial role in championing sign language education by creating supportive policies and allocating resources. This includes everything from hiring qualified teachers and interpreters to providing access to assistive technology and promoting inclusive school environments. Principals and superintendents who prioritize sign language education send a clear message that all students deserve equal access to communication and learning.

So, there you have it: our fabulous party guest list! Each stakeholder brings unique skills and perspectives to the table, creating a vibrant and enriching educational experience for all. Because when we all work together, everyone benefits.

Navigating the World of Sign: Key Systems and Concepts

Let’s dive into the fascinating world of sign! It’s not just a bunch of hand gestures; it’s a rich tapestry of languages, cultures, and approaches. To effectively use sign language in education, it’s essential to understand the different systems and concepts that underpin it. So, grab your virtual decoder ring, and let’s explore!

American Sign Language (ASL): The Visual Language

ASL isn’t just English on hands; it’s a completely separate language with its own grammar and syntax! Imagine trying to speak Spanish by just translating each English word directly – it wouldn’t quite work, right? The same goes for ASL. ASL sentence structure often places the topic first, followed by the comment. Instead of saying “The cat is on the table,” you might sign something closer to “Cat table on.” Another key feature is the use of facial expressions and body language, which aren’t just added flair – they’re integral to conveying meaning. Think of them as the punctuation marks and intonation of spoken language. To truly master ASL, you’ve got to embrace its cultural context, too! Immerse yourself in the Deaf community, learn about their history, and respect their traditions.

Signed Exact English (SEE) and Manually Coded English (MCE): Bridging the Gap

These systems aim to represent English using signs. Think of them as trying to build a bridge between the visual world of sign and the structure of English. SEE and MCE use signs to match each English word, including prefixes and suffixes. This can be helpful for students learning English grammar, but it’s different from ASL, which has its own distinct grammatical rules. A key difference between SEE and MCE lies in their approach to creating new signs. SEE aims for a one-to-one correspondence between English words and signs, even inventing new signs when necessary, while MCE often uses existing ASL signs.

Fingerspelling: A Handy Tool

Think of fingerspelling as the alphabet of the sign language world. It’s used to spell out names, places, or words that don’t have a specific sign. Learning to read fingerspelling fluently is essential! Practice recognizing handshapes and the flow of letters. Tips for improving reception: Pay attention to the overall shape and movement of the hand, and use context to help you guess words. For production: Aim for clarity and consistency in your handshapes. Imagine you’re drawing each letter in the air.

Deaf Culture: A Vibrant Community

Deaf Culture is more than just a shared language; it’s a vibrant community with its own values, beliefs, traditions, and history. Understanding Deaf Culture is crucial for creating inclusive and respectful educational environments. It’s about recognizing Deaf individuals as a cultural group with a unique perspective, not simply as people with a hearing loss.

Deaf Education: Tailored Approaches

Deaf Education involves specialized teaching methods designed to meet the unique needs of deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Historically, approaches have varied, from oralism (emphasizing spoken language) to manualism (emphasizing sign language). The field has evolved significantly, now often embracing bilingual-bicultural approaches that value both ASL and English.

Inclusion: Creating Welcoming Classrooms

Inclusion is about creating classrooms where all students, including deaf students, feel welcome, supported, and valued. This means providing accommodations such as sign language interpreters, visual aids, and preferential seating. It also means fostering positive interactions between deaf and hearing students, encouraging communication, and celebrating diversity.

Accessibility: Removing Barriers

Accessibility means ensuring equal access to information and communication for all students. This includes providing sign language interpreters, captioning videos, using visual aids, and adapting teaching materials. Technological aids, like CART (Communication Access Realtime Translation) and FM systems, can also play a crucial role.

Bilingual Education: Two Languages are Better Than One!

Bilingual education for deaf students typically involves using both ASL and English in instruction. Research shows that this approach can have significant cognitive benefits, enhancing language development, literacy skills, and overall academic achievement.

Early Intervention: Starting Early for Success

Introducing sign language early to deaf children is crucial for their language development, cognitive growth, and social skills. Early intervention programs can provide families with the support and resources they need to communicate effectively with their children from a young age.

Sign Variations: Embracing Diversity

Just like spoken languages, sign language has regional and individual variations. A sign used in one part of the country might be slightly different in another. Don’t be alarmed! Context usually helps to clarify meaning. Embrace these variations as part of the richness and diversity of the language.

Where Learning Really Happens: Sign Language in Action

So, where does all this amazing sign language learning and teaching actually go down? It’s not just in textbooks and online courses, that’s for sure! It’s happening in a whole bunch of different places, each with its own vibe and purpose. From your everyday classroom to specialized schools and bustling community centers, sign language is creating connections everywhere.

The Classic Classroom: Inclusion in Action

Ever wondered how a regular classroom can become sign language-friendly? It’s all about adapting! Think about visual aids, strategically placed mirrors, and teachers learning basic sign to communicate with their deaf or hard-of-hearing students. It’s about making the classroom a space where everyone feels seen (and heard… or rather, signed!). The key is inclusive teaching strategies that benefit all students.

Schools for the Deaf: A World of Their Own

Now, these are special places! Schools for the Deaf offer a fully immersive environment where sign language isn’t just a tool; it’s the lingua franca. These schools provide comprehensive education and support services specifically designed for deaf and hard-of-hearing students. The benefit of a Deaf-centric learning environment is that students are surrounded by their peers, teachers, and role models who understand their experiences.

Resource Rooms: A Little Extra Support

Sometimes, students need a little extra help. That’s where resource rooms come in! They offer individualized instruction and support within mainstream schools, providing a safe space for students to receive targeted assistance with sign language and other academic areas.

Local School Districts: Making It Happen

How do sign language programs actually get implemented? That’s where the local school districts come in! They’re responsible for creating and managing programs, hiring qualified staff, and allocating resources. Of course, it’s not always smooth sailing. Overcoming challenges like funding constraints and finding qualified teachers is all part of the process.

State Departments of Education: Setting the Standards

Think of these as the rule-makers! State Departments of Education set the policies and regulations that govern deaf education. They ensure quality and compliance, making sure that all students have access to a free and appropriate public education.

The National Association of the Deaf (NAD): Advocates for Change

The NAD is a powerful voice for the Deaf community! They advocate for the rights of deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, provide resources and support, and work to raise awareness about Deaf culture. They are always there, championing accessibility and inclusion in all areas of life.

The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID): Ensuring Quality Communication

Interpreters are essential for bridging communication gaps. RID sets the certification and ethical standards for interpreters, ensuring that they are qualified and competent. The importance of qualified interpreters can’t be overstated; they play a crucial role in facilitating communication between deaf and hearing individuals.

Deaf Community Centers: A Hub of Connection

These centers are so important because, at the heart of the Deaf community is connection. They promote community, identity, and access to resources. Deaf Community Centers provide a welcoming space for people to come together, share their experiences, and celebrate Deaf culture. They play a vital role in fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment within the Deaf community.

Building Your Toolkit: Essential Materials and Resources for Sign Language Education

Alright, so you’re ready to dive into the world of sign language education? Awesome! Think of it like gearing up for an epic adventure. You wouldn’t climb Mount Everest in flip-flops, right? Same deal here! You need the right tools to make learning and teaching sign language effective and fun. Let’s unearth those treasures.

Sign Language Dictionaries: Your Trusty Compasses

Imagine exploring a new land without a map. Sounds tricky, eh? Sign language dictionaries are your maps, showing you the way through the beautiful landscape of ASL. You’ve got two main flavors: print and online.

Print dictionaries are like those old, reliable paper maps – always there, no batteries needed! Look for ones with clear illustrations, multiple angles of the signs, and cultural notes to give you the full picture.

Online dictionaries are your GPS – constantly updated and packed with features. Check for video demonstrations, user reviews, and the ability to search for signs by English word or ASL concept. Consider these factors when choosing:

• Comprehensiveness: Does it cover a wide range of signs, including slang and regional variations?
• User-friendliness: Is it easy to navigate and understand?
• Visuals: Are the illustrations or videos clear and helpful?
• Cultural Notes: Does it provide context and cultural information about the signs?

Sign Language Apps: Your Pocket-Sized Tutors

In this day and age, there’s an app for everything, including learning sign language. Think of these as your pocket-sized tutors. But beware, not all apps are created equal! Some are gold, others… well, let’s just say they’re more like fool’s gold. Before you download, ask yourself:

• Is the content accurate and up-to-date? (Look for apps developed by reputable organizations or Deaf educators.)
• Is it interactive and engaging? (Does it offer games, quizzes, or other ways to practice?)
• Does it include cultural information? (Remember, ASL is more than just signs; it’s a culture!)
• Is it user-friendly? (Can you easily navigate and find what you need?)

Popular apps often used include Lingodeer, Memrise, and ASL Dictionary.

Videos & DVDs: Your Window into ASL Storytelling

Imagine being able to watch fluent signers tell stories, explain grammar, and share their culture. Videos and DVDs make this possible! They’re like having a front-row seat to the magic of ASL.

• Instructional Materials: Look for videos that break down signs step-by-step, explain grammatical concepts, and offer practice exercises.
• Stories in ASL: These are a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the language and culture.
• Effective Use in the Classroom: Use short clips to introduce new signs, reinforce concepts, or spark discussion. Pause the video to allow students to practice and ask questions.

Textbooks: Your Structured Learning Guides

Textbooks provide a structured approach to learning sign language, covering everything from basic vocabulary to advanced grammar. They are important for ASL Courses. Think of them as your reliable companions that guide you through your study journey. When selecting appropriate textbooks, consider:

• Teaching Style: Does it align with your teaching philosophy (or your own learning style)?
• Learning Objectives: Does it cover the topics and skills you need to learn or teach?
• Level: Is it appropriate for your current level of knowledge and experience?
• Supplementary Materials: Does it come with workbooks, online resources, or other helpful materials?

Posters & Visual Aids: Decorating Your Space to Inspire

Posters and visual aids are a fantastic way to create a visually stimulating and informative learning environment. They’re like decorating your classroom with inspiration.

• Sign Alphabet: A must-have for any sign language classroom!
• Common Signs: Display posters of frequently used signs to reinforce vocabulary.
• Grammatical Concepts: Use visuals to explain concepts like classifiers, pronouns, and sentence structure.
• Making it Visually Appealing: Use bright colors, clear fonts, and engaging images. Keep it simple and uncluttered.

Children’s Books in ASL: Nurturing Literacy and a Love for ASL

Reading to children is a fun and meaningful way to introduce them to ASL. It promotes literacy and language development. Choose books with engaging stories, colorful illustrations, and culturally relevant themes.

• Select engaging and culturally relevant books. Look for books that feature Deaf characters, ASL signs, and Deaf cultural themes.
• Read aloud in ASL and English. This helps children make connections between the two languages.
• Use finger spelling during read alouds.

With this toolkit in hand, you’re well-equipped to embark on your sign language adventure! Remember to explore, experiment, and most importantly, have fun!

Navigating the Legal Landscape: Laws and Policies Impacting Sign Language Education

• Decoding the Legal Framework:

  • Ever wonder what safeguards the right of deaf and hard-of-hearing students to a quality education? It’s not just good intentions; it’s the law! This section will break down the legal underpinnings that ensure sign language education isn’t just an option but a right. Think of it as your cheat sheet to understanding the rules of the game.

• Key Legislation and What It Means for You:

  • Let’s dive into the specifics. We’ll explore the landmark legislation that shapes sign language education.

  • Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA): Imagine IDEA as the superhero legislation for students with disabilities. It guarantees a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) for deaf students. We’ll uncover the key provisions and requirements that ensure these students receive the support they need to thrive.

    • FAPE Explained: Breaking down what constitutes an “appropriate” education under IDEA, including specialized instruction and related services.

    • Least Restrictive Environment (LRE): Discussing the principle of educating deaf students in the setting closest to general education as possible, while still meeting their needs.

    • Parental Rights: Emphasizing the rights of parents to be involved in their child’s education and to advocate for their needs.

  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): The ADA is all about equal access. It prohibits discrimination based on disability in educational settings. From classroom accommodations to extracurricular activities, we’ll explore how the ADA ensures deaf students have the same opportunities as their hearing peers.

    • Accessibility Requirements: Detailing the physical and communication accessibility requirements under the ADA, such as providing interpreters or captioning.

    • Reasonable Accommodations: Explaining the concept of reasonable accommodations and how they apply to deaf students in education.

  • Communication Plans: For every student, a unique communication plan. We will talk more about Developing individualized plans for deaf students to ensure effective communication.

  • IEPs (Individualized Education Programs): Think of IEPs as personalized roadmaps to success. These documents outline educational goals, services, and accommodations tailored to each student’s unique needs. We’ll explore how IEPs support sign language instruction and ensure deaf students reach their full potential.

    • The IEP Team: Identifying the key members of the IEP team, including parents, teachers, administrators, and related service providers.

    • Sign Language Goals: How to incorporate sign language goals and objectives into the IEP, ensuring that students receive appropriate instruction and support.

    • Progress Monitoring: Discussing the importance of regularly monitoring student progress toward their sign language goals and making adjustments to the IEP as needed.

Looking Ahead: Current Trends and Future Directions in Sign Language Education

Sign language education isn’t stuck in the past; it’s evolving faster than ever! Think of it like your favorite superhero getting a new, super-powered suit. We’re seeing some awesome changes that promise to make learning and teaching sign language even more effective and accessible. Let’s dive into what’s on the horizon.

Tech to the Rescue: Technological Advancements

Remember flip phones? Technology moves fast, and sign language education is no exception! We’re seeing a surge in innovative tech designed to make learning ASL and other sign languages more engaging.

• Apps and Software: Forget dusty textbooks! Interactive apps and software are gamifying the learning experience with quizzes, sign recognition, and personalized feedback. Imagine learning ASL while playing a fun game – that’s the future!
• Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): Get ready to step into a virtual world where you can practice signing with avatars or overlay signs onto real-world objects using AR. It’s like having a personal ASL tutor in your pocket or turning your living room into an interactive classroom.
• AI-Powered Translation: Think real-time translation from spoken language to sign language and vice-versa. This is especially crucial for creating accessible communication in various settings. AI is making it easier for everyone to understand and be understood.

Double the Fun: Promoting Bilingualism and Biliteracy

Why settle for one language when you can have two? Bilingualism and biliteracy (proficiency in both sign language and a written language like English) are gaining traction as the ideal approach in deaf education.

• Cognitive Benefits: Research shows that being bilingual boosts cognitive skills like problem-solving, multitasking, and critical thinking. It’s like giving your brain a supercharge!
• Enhanced Communication: Bilingualism enables individuals to navigate both the Deaf and hearing worlds with ease. This opens up more opportunities for social interaction, education, and employment.
• Best Practices: Schools are implementing strategies that support both ASL and English, such as using visual aids, incorporating Deaf culture into the curriculum, and providing role models who are proficient in both languages.

Sign Language for All: Expanding Access for Everyone

Sign language shouldn’t be exclusive to the Deaf community. It’s a beautiful, expressive language that benefits everyone! We’re seeing a push to make sign language education more widely available.

• Early Childhood Education: Introducing sign language to babies and toddlers, even in hearing families, can promote early language development, reduce frustration, and strengthen bonds. Baby sign language is becoming increasingly popular!
• K-12 Education: Offering ASL as a foreign language option in schools exposes hearing students to Deaf culture, promotes inclusivity, and develops valuable communication skills. Plus, it looks great on a college application!
• Community Programs: From workshops to online courses, communities are offering more opportunities for people of all ages to learn sign language. It’s a fantastic way to connect with others and expand your horizons.

The future of sign language education is bright, with technology, bilingualism, and inclusivity leading the way. These advancements are not just making learning easier; they’re empowering individuals, bridging communication gaps, and creating a more connected world.

References

Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we’re diving headfirst into the ‘where I got my facts’ section! Think of this as the blog post’s backstage pass – a glimpse into the ‘who’s who’ of resources that made this whole shebang possible.

• Citing is Caring: We’ll have a neat and tidy list of all the sources directly referenced in this post. Think of it as giving credit where credit’s definitely due – from scholarly articles to super helpful websites. We want to make sure the awesome folks whose knowledge we borrowed get a shout-out! And, you know, keep things ethical and all that jazz.

• Further Reading Fiesta: But wait, there’s more! This isn’t just a ‘here’s where I got my info’ kinda deal. Oh no, we’re also throwing in a list of suggested readings. These are the books, articles, and websites that’ll send you down the rabbit hole of sign language knowledge. Consider it your personalized ‘sign language obsession starter pack’.

So, what kind of goodies might you find?

• Scholarly Shenanigans: Expect research papers, academic articles, and publications from the linguistic wizards who’ve dedicated their lives to studying ASL and deaf education. We’re talking deep dives into the grammar, history, and cultural nuances.
• Organizational Oasis: Links to websites of leading organizations in the deaf community, like the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) and the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID). These are your go-to spots for information, advocacy, and resources galore!
• Textbook Treasures: Recommendations for sign language textbooks – whether you’re a newbie dipping your toes in or a seasoned pro brushing up on your skills.
• Media Mania: Websites, videos, and documentaries that explore Deaf culture, ASL, and the experiences of deaf individuals. Time to expand your media horizons!

11. Appendices (Optional): Your Treasure Chest of Sign Language Goodies!

Think of the appendices as that bonus level in your favorite video game, or the director’s cut of a movie – the extra stuff that takes your understanding and engagement to the next level! We’ve packed this section with goodies to help you on your sign language journey. It’s the ultimate “just in case” stash, filled with resources you’ll be glad to have at your fingertips.

Glossary of Sign Language Terms: Decode the Lingo!

Ever feel like you’re trying to decipher a secret code? Don’t sweat it! Our glossary is like your Rosetta Stone for the sign language world. It’s a handy-dandy list of key terms, definitions, and explanations. Consider it your personal cheat sheet to understanding the language of signs. From “initialized sign” to “classifiers,” we’ve got you covered!

Resources for Learning Sign Language: Your Adventure Starts Here!

Ready to dive in and learn some signs? Fantastic! But where do you even begin? Fear not! This section is your treasure map to all the best resources for learning sign language. We’re talking websites bursting with lessons, organizations offering courses, and tools to practice your skills. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to brush up on your skills, these resources will guide you.

Contact Information for Relevant Organizations and Advocacy Groups: Connect and Make a Difference!

Want to get even more involved? Awesome! Here, we’ve compiled contact information for organizations and advocacy groups dedicated to the Deaf community and sign language education. Connecting with these groups is a great way to support their work, learn more about the issues, and even find volunteer opportunities. Together, we can create a more inclusive and accessible world for everyone!

So, whether you’re looking to create a more inclusive classroom, help your students focus, or just add a fun new skill to your teaching repertoire, give classroom sign language a try! You might be surprised at the positive impact it has on both you and your students. Happy signing!