Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to introduce yourself and have a basic understanding of New Zealand Sign Language.

Materials and Prep

• Pen and paper
• Access to the internet
• Quiet space for practicing signs

Activities

• Watch videos online: Look for videos that introduce basic New Zealand Sign Language vocabulary and phrases. Take notes on signs that you find interesting or want to learn.

• Practice fingerspelling: Learn the fingerspelling alphabet in New Zealand Sign Language. Write down your name and practice fingerspelling it using the correct signs.

• Create flashcards: Make flashcards with different signs on one side and their corresponding English words on the other side. Practice matching the signs to their meanings.

• Role-play conversations: Imagine different scenarios where you would need to use sign language, such as ordering food at a restaurant or asking for directions. Practice signing these conversations.

Talking Points

• Introduction to New Zealand Sign Language: "New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) is the official language of the Deaf community in New Zealand. It has its own grammar and vocabulary, just like spoken languages. Today, we will learn some basic signs and phrases."

• Fingerspelling: "Fingerspelling is an important aspect of sign language. It involves using specific handshapes to represent letters of the alphabet. Let's learn the fingerspelling alphabet and practice spelling our names."

• Flashcards: "Flashcards are a great way to practice and memorize signs. We will create flashcards with signs on one side and English words on the other. Let's match the signs to their meanings."

• Role-play conversations: "Sign language is used for communication, just like spoken language. Let's imagine different scenarios where we need to use sign language and practice signing conversations."