ASL I provides an introduction to the basic skills in production and comprehension of American Sign Language. The course focuses on the alphabet, numbers, fingerspelling, vocabulary, and grammar which will lead to increased communicative and cultural proficiency in ASL. The culture, history, current events and traditions of the Deaf community are introduced through selected readings, visual recordings, and other authentic materials. Visually attending, signing, individual feedback, and group activities are designed to instruct, reinforce, connect language skills, and develop signacy. This course will include applications, problem solving, higher-order thinking skills, and performance-based and project-based assessments. The goal is to be able to carry on a short conversation with another student by the end of the course. Also, students will develop the practical skills and knowledge necessary for basic interactions within the deaf community.