The fall quarter introduction to American Sign Language uses conversational methods to introduce basic knowledge about American Sign Language and deaf people. Emphasis is upon acquisition of both language comprehension and production skills as well as Deaf culture and history with the goal that students be able to communicate with cultural competence. The course begins with visual readiness activities, then uses meaningful conversational contexts to introduce vocabulary, grammar, and culturally appropriate behaviors. Basic fingerspelling skills will also be practiced. Students will be invited to participate in local Deaf community events.  In winter quarter we will focus on building mastery of American Sign Language grammar skills, increasing vocabulary, and gaining a deeper knowledge and appreciation of Deaf culture. Spontaneous, interactive use of American Sign Language is stressed through discussion of events and activities, and the student will continue study of information related to everyday life experiences of deaf Americans and deaf people elsewhere in the world. Students will be invited to participate in local Deaf community events.  In spring quarter we will focus on grammatical features such as spatialization, directionality, and non-manual components. Intensive work in vocabulary development, receptive skills, production of narratives (storytelling), and continued study of Deaf culture are stressed. Students will be expected to participate in local Deaf community events.