British Sign Language and Deaf Culture 1A (T5002)
15 credits, Level 4
Autumn teaching
This first-stage module introduces British Sign Language (BSL) and deaf culture for students with little or no prior knowledge of the target language. You'll:
- learn to use hands and eyes to form and understand basic signs and sentences in everyday situations
- identify what constitutes a sign and what doesn't
- use common phrases, questions, and imperatives in conversations on topics such as weather, holidays, and shopping
- explore cultural rules for interacting with deaf people
- gain an introduction to perspectives on BSL as a language.
Classes include practice in producing and understanding signs, simulations, practical exercises, and conversations, focusing on themes, grammar and language skills. Activities are complemented by independent and group study, supported by Canvas and other technologies.
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We鈥檙e planning to run these modules in the academic year 2026/27. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.
We鈥檒l make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
Courses
This module is offered on the following courses:
- Anthropology with a Language BA
- Business, Management and Economics (with a foundation year) BSc
- Design and Business (with a foundation year) BSc
- Drama with a Language BA
- Geography with a Language BA
- International Development with a Language BA
- International Relations with a Language BA
- Law with a Language LLB
- Mathematics (with a foundation year) BSc
- Media, Arts and Humanities (with a foundation year) BA
- Psychology (with a foundation year) BSc
- Social Sciences (with a foundation year) BA
- Sociology with a Language BA