NZSL Lesson- I am capable and connected with deaf learners
5/5/17
I started Ormiston primary last year. Sometimes I had to interact with deaf learners. I was really challenged talking to them. Most of the time, the deaf learners misunderstood what I was trying to say. I used to get frustrated and I used to look NZSL online but still, it was not very clear for me.
The last term, it was a wonderful opportunity for me to attend the NZSL lesson. Shona taught how to get the learners attention first before you sign it to them. I also learned how to greet and have small conversations with others. I started practicing whenever possible with the learners. I started teaching my hapu as well so that I could gain confidence in using sign language.
Last Monday, I had a chance to talk to one of the deaf learners during iBreak. First, I tried to get his attention, then I started signing. He started looking at me signing, even thoughIi was super slow, he was very patient and responded to my question with a wonderful smile on his face. Some of the words I was not sure, so i tried to do the sign alphabets, the learners was very supportive to me and helping me to say it in a different way. I felt like i was capable to interact with deaf learners and connected to their world.
Ka pai!
ReplyDeleteThe best way to learn a language, they say, is to have to use it. What a great context we are in to practice our NZSL. I also love that you are teaching the learners NZSL and I do hope that this is something you extend and expand. Alphabet and phonics connect nicely to NZSL.
Di