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Erin Michele Lamb
An Introduction to Deaf Culture
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Language Facts
• Culturally deaf Americans communicate using American Sign Language or ASL.
• Sign language is not universal. Different countries use their own unique signs and facial expressions to communicate.
• ASL is America’s third most used language.
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ASL Structure
• ASL is not just “signed English.” Like all languages, it has its own grammar, vocabulary, and rules.
• Unlike English, ASL follows a topic/comment sentence structure. For example, the question “What school do you go to?” would be signed “School go-to which?”
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Facial Expressions
• Facial expressions play an important role in all signed languages.
• Facial expressions not only show feelings and intentions, but they clarify the meaning of words and sentences.
• In fact, the type of sentence can be changed by just using a different facial expression.
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Sentence Types and Their Facial Expressions
Statements Yes/No
Questions
W/H Questions
Eyebrows: Up for topic Remain Up Remain Down
Head: Nodding Tilt Forward Tilt Forward
Lips: Pursed together Pursed together “O” shaped
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Helpful Facts• “Deaf” and “hard-of-hearing” are culturally
acceptable terms. Try to avoid negative terms like “hearing impaired,” “handicapped,” or “disabled” when describing a deaf person.
• The deaf view their culture and language with pride. They do not consider themselves to be disadvantaged, just different.
• Communication between a hearing and a deaf person can easily be achieved using written communication. Just remember to have patience!
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Resources
• Video animation is a great way to learn signs. • Pre-made lesson plans for teaching
ASL to hearing or deaf students
are available online.
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Thank You for Watching!The End