Sign Language Classes

Sign Class FAQ

How long are your classes

In-person classes meet for 2 hours per class. Classes meet weekly for 8 weeks for a total of 8 sessions. We do not have class on federal holidays.

Who teaches your classes

Our teachers are either Deaf or Interpreter-level instructors. Our Deaf teachers share their lived experiences using ASL daily. This is a valued part of the learning process.

Are your classes recorded

We do not record any of our classes. However, we will share our materials and links to videos to reinforce learning and for practice outside of class.

What curriculum do you use

Beginning I and Beginning II classes use A Basic Course in American Sign Language ISBN # 0-932666-42-6

Do you provide credit for your classes

What is the cost for each class

A full eight-week session is $120 per person.

What is your cancellation/refund policy

Any request for a refund must be made in writing PRIOR to the start of the second class to Michelle Masbaum at mmasbaum@centerondeafness.org

I may have to miss a week, is that okay?

It is fine if you are absent and miss a class. This includes if you would like to sign up for classes but will miss the first week.

The classes say “adult” can my teenager attend

While it is okay for a mature teenager to attend adult classes, be aware that our teachers are not accountable for individuals who may leave the classroom. The teachers are also unable to predict what questions another adult learner may ask so questions with adult content, such as swear words, may be asked out loud in class.

What does each level focus on?

Levels are designed to scaffold. All levels incorporate practice using fingerspelling and numbers as well as Deaf Culture Awareness. In addition, we strive to provide a good balance of receptive and expressive sign language skills.

Beginning I includes introductory vocabulary skills including asking questions, key phrases, and sharing information about yourself. Facial expressions, gestures, and ASL parameters are emphasized as an integral part of ASL grammar.
Beginning II includes more vocabulary related to daily living and routines, including talking about family, friends, school, and sports.
Intermediate introduces more vocabulary, including an in-depth focus on classifiers, and using those classifiers to describe people, places, and routines within the home and community.

Calendar

2023 CLASSES
Summer Quarter - July 11th to August 29th
Fall Quarter - September 19th to November 7th

2024 CLASSES:
Winter Quarter - January 23rd to March 12th
Spring Quarter - April 9th to May 28th
Summer Quarter - June 18th to August 6th
Fall Quarter - September 3rd to October 22nd

Register

Payment in full (online or cash/check in person) is required no later than the first class

Information

The Center on Deafness is pleased to offer in-person, adult, community, non-credit classes in American Sign Language.

Classes include Beginners, Intermediate, Advanced and Interpreter level classes. The Center may offer Family classes during the Summer quarter depending on pre-registered enrollment. Our class content focuses on the grammar and structure of ASL as well as Deaf Culture and lived experiences of Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing people.

Classes take place at 3444 Dundee Rd, Northbrook, IL 60064. There is ample parking in our large parking lot.

The classes meet weekly for eight (8) weeks. The classes are held for 2 hours from 7 -9 pm on Tuesdays. Tuition cost is $120 per person. Classes are limited to 15 people, so register early!

Registration will close one week prior to class start date. Payment can be made online or by sending a check to the address listed above.

Resource link for the Sign Language Class text book:
A Basic Course in American Sign Language, 2nd Edition
ISBN #0932666426