Subject: Elective, Second Language

American Sign Language 1

Course Type: Standard High School

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Credits: 1.0

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Course Description

American Sign Language 1 introduces students to the basic hand movements and other body expressions of American Sign Language. This course uses useful educational enhancements, such as short video-based illustrations of various signs as well as reinforcing lecture videos, in order to help students confidently communicate in ASL. This course also increases students’ awareness of the deaf and hard-of-hearing community by introducing students to the technologies used by deaf people, challenges faced by deaf people in school and the workplace, and important figures in deaf culture.

Textbook: American Sign Language 1 © Excel Education Systems, Inc. 2023

Course Objectives

Learn basic communication in American Sign Language

Perform signs for the manual alphabet, asking questions, and indicating tenses.

Demonstrate signs for colors, animals, emotions, school objects, holidays, and many more.

Follow etiquette rules for sign conversations

Define deaf culture and explain its history

List career opportunities for those with ASL skills.

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Course Contents

Module TitleModule Topic(s)
Introduction to American Sign Language
Getting to Know You & Others
Sign Conversations
Time & Weather
Around the House & Food
Technology & Travel
Around Town & the Workplace
Other Situations
Being Deaf at School
Interdisciplinary Involvement with the d/Deaf

Recommended Prerequisites

Carnegie Credits Explained: Our Approach vs. Trimester Credits

Carnegie Credit System
Excel High School follows the Carnegie Credit system, a widely recognized method of measuring student progress based on instructional hours. A single Carnegie credit reflects approximately 120 hours of coursework, typically completed over a full academic year.

Carnegie Credit vs. Trimester Credit
While Carnegie credits are awarded based on total hours over a year, trimester credits divide the school year into three terms. In a trimester system, students complete courses in shorter, intensive sessions, often earning partial credits (e.g., 0.33 or 0.5 per term). In contrast, Excel’s use of Carnegie credits ensures students have ample time to engage deeply with the material and develop a well-rounded understanding at a consistent pace.

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At Excel High School, we are proud to be regionally accredited by Cognia, along with additional accreditations from NCA, SACS, NWAC, and the Middle States Association. Our programs meet the same rigorous standards as public schools, giving you the confidence of earning a well-respected diploma.

Global Recognition for Our Accredited Diplomas

Excel High School’s regionally accredited diploma is accepted by colleges and universities around the world. With our recognized accreditation, you can confidently pursue higher education wherever your journey takes you.

Accreditation You Can Trust

Recognized & Respected Nationwide

At Excel High School, we are proud to be regionally accredited by Cognia, along with additional accreditations from NCA, SACS, NWAC, and the Middle States Association. Our programs meet the same rigorous standards as public schools, giving you the confidence of earning a well-respected diploma.

Global Recognition for Our Accredited Diplomas

Excel High School’s regionally accredited diploma is accepted by colleges and universities around the world. With our recognized accreditation, you can confidently pursue higher education wherever your journey takes you.