British Sign Language: Level 1

British Sign Language: Level 1

(SCQF level 4)

Evening, Languages

Course Options
No course offerings available at the moment.

Overview

This beginner's level course will enable you to communicate in British Sign Language (BSL). You'll be able to communicate about familiar, day-to-day topics and activities. The three-unit structure will allow you to study the qualification in bite-sized chunks.

At the end of this course, you’ll be able to communicate confidently to deaf people, using basic sign language skills, in a variety of situations, and progress to Level 2.

Qualification Structure

The qualification is divided into three units, each of which can be achieved separately. If you are new to BSL you should cover BSL101 first, as units BSL102 and BSL103 build on this knowledge.

To achieve the full Level 1 Award in British Sign Language, you must pass all units.

  • Unit BSL 101 (F/502/4513) - Introduction to BSL.
  • Unit BSL 102 (J/504/0762) - Conversational BSL.
  • Unit BSL 103 (F/504/0761) - Communicate in BSL about Everyday Life.

On completing this course (on passing exams 101, 102 and 103), you can progress on to British Sign Language 2.

Minimum entry requirements
  • If English is not your first language you will need to provide evidence that you have achieved ESOL Intermediate Level 2 (or equivalent).

Additional selection requirements

BSL competence standards include requirements for you to have sufficient sight, manual dexterity, facial and body movement to produce and receive BSL.

What you study

You'll study:

  • Fingerspelling the alphabet, your name and where you are from.
  • Numbers, calendar, dates, times and colours.
  • Explain directions, different modes of transport and how you arrived.
  • Talk about friends, family and pets.
  • Hobbies, interests and everyday activities.
  • Describe people, objects and buildings.
  • Compound signs and directional verbs.
  • Practice on receptive, presentation and conversational skills.

After the course

On completing this course (on passing exams 101,102 and 103), you may progress on to British Sign Language 2.

How the course is taught

The course will be taught in a friendly atmosphere, and you'll engage in class by producing and receiving signs. The course will not be voiced.

You must appreciate this course requires considerable practice, both during class and in your own time, to reach assessment standards.

You should:-

  • Dedicate at least 6 hours per week at home for study and practice to ensure your skills improve and develop.
  • Engage in the lessons.
  • Be prepared to work with a diverse range of people within your class.
  • Be prepared to let class members work with you – all class members will work with each other.

Materials

Handouts will be provided in class as appropriate. You will be advised by the lecturer if you need to purchase any materials.

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