Exploring ASL History

Grade Level

9th Grade

Duration

45 minutes

Class Size

20 Students

Unit

Mastering ASL Basics
Lesson 1 of 12

Lesson Title

Introduction to ASL

Lesson Description

Students will explore the history and cultural significance of American Sign Language (ASL) as a visual language. They will gain insight into its role within the Deaf community and society at large. This foundational lesson establishes the importance of ASL as a unique language and cultural identity.

Common Core Alignment

While ASL courses are typically aligned with world languages or specialized courses, this unit incorporates Common Core standards emphasizing informational text comprehension, critical thinking, and presentation skills, specifically:

Reading: Informational Text (RI.9-10.1, RI.9-10.2, RI.9-10.7)

RI.9-10.1: Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
RI.9-10.2: Determine a central idea of a text and analyze its development over the course of the text, including how it emerges and is shaped and refined.
RI.9-10.7: Analyze various accounts of a subject told in different mediums.

Speaking and Listening (SL.9-10.1, SL.9-10.4)

SL.9-10.1: Initiate and participate effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners.
SL.9-10.4: Present information clearly, concisely, and logically.

Learning Objectives:

I can explain the significance of American Sign Language and identify key moments in its history.
I can describe how ASL serves as a vital communication tool within the Deaf community.
I can articulate the cultural importance of ASL beyond just language.

Success Criteria

Students will be able to verbally explain the importance of ASL in society and its unique nature as a visual language.
Students will demonstrate comprehension through participation in discussions and a brief written reflection.

Materials Needed

Projector or smartboard
Video clips on ASL history and Deaf culture (pre-selected and captioned)
Visual timeline posters of ASL historical milestones
Handouts summarizing key points about ASL history and Deaf culture
Student notebooks/journals for reflection

Differentiation Strategies

Visual Learners: Use rich visual aids (videos, images, infographics).
Auditory Learners: Incorporate clear spoken explanations and guided discussions.
Reading/Writing Learners: Provide handouts and journaling/reflection prompts.
Students with Learning Disabilities: Offer extended time on reflection activity and provide sentence starters.
ELL Students: Use simplified language handouts and pair with bilingual peer supports if available.

Extension Activity (Advanced Learners)

Research a famous Deaf individual (such as Helen Keller, Marlee Matlin, or Nyle DiMarco) and prepare a short presentation on their contributions to society and Deaf culture.

Lesson Plan Timeline

Time	Activity	Details
0-5 min	Introduction & "I Can" Statements	Teacher introduces the lesson, writes “I can” statements on board, briefly sets context of ASL as more than a language—deeply rooted in culture and identity. Students copy “I can” statements.
5-15 min	Video & Visual Timeline	Watch a 7-minute video on ASL history and Deaf culture. Follow with a class walkthrough of the visual timeline poster highlighting significant ASL milestones and Deaf community history. Discuss key points referencing the Common Core RI standards.
15-25 min	Think-Pair-Share Discussion	Prompt: "Why is ASL important for the Deaf community and society?" Students first write brief notes individually, then discuss answers in pairs, finally share insights with class (addressing SL.9-10.1). Teacher scaffolds with probing questions.
25-35 min	Reflection Writing	Students write a one-paragraph journal entry answering: “What is the significance of ASL, and why is it important to learn about it?” Teacher offers sentence starters for support.
35-40 min	Wrap-Up & Success Criteria Review	Teacher and students revisit “I can” statements and success criteria. Brief verbal review and highlight takeaway points.
40-45 min	Extension Instructions & Q&A	Introduce research assignment on famous Deaf individuals as extended learning. Provide guidelines and answer any questions.

Assessment

Informal assessment through observation of participation in discussion (SL.9-10.1).
Written reflection evaluated for understanding of ASL’s significance (RI.9-10.2).
Exit slip: Students state one new fact learned about ASL or Deaf culture.

Teacher Notes

Emphasize respect for Deaf culture and ASL as a complete, natural language.
Use the video and timeline thoughtfully to connect historical context to real-world impact.
Encourage thoughtful listening and peer interaction to build empathy and interest.

This lesson plan blends language arts standards with cultural competency goals, creating a rich entry point to Mastering ASL Basics while aligning with Common Core expectations in reading, listening, and speaking.

Teaching Instructions