American Sign Language
American Sign Language Classes help you
learn new skills and develop new passions!
American Sign Language Overview
American Sign Language at the Wood County Society is a multi-tiered program. Our classes focus on the mode of sign known as American Sign Language (ASL), the official language of the American Deaf Community. While some of our participants are excited to learn the basics of a new language as a hobby, others participate in these classes long-term to become interpreters.
Class Details
ASL Level 1 Class Details:
ASL 1 is a beginner course in which participants learn basic vocabulary and grammatical structure. In addition to the language, students are exposed to Deaf culture and history and educated on the appropriate cultural etiquette for communication. By the end of the six-week session, students who attend regularly will have learned enough vocabulary to have a basic, introductory conversation in sign language.
The Fall ASL 1 (1st Session) will begin on September 9, 2024! Classes run from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (6 Week Session). Classes will be available on Monday evenings! Registrations are limited to first come, first served.
The FALL ASL 1 (2nd Session) will begin on November 4, 2024 ! Classes run from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (6 Week Session). Classes will be available on Monday evenings! Registrations are limited to first come, first served.
American Sign Language 2 and Interpreter Preparation
The ASL 2 class features more receptive practice (reading other people’s sign language), more vocabulary, and the incorporation of advanced, linguistic features and non-manual grammar. This class prepares students to use the language in fast-paced conversations and possible careers in interpreting. ASL 2 and Interpreter Preparation will be taught together during two-hour classes once a week.
The Wood County Society’s Interpreter Preparation Program will guide intermediate and advanced signers through what’s required to become qualified, certified, state-registered interpreters who can legally work in West Virginia and surrounding areas. This program focuses on Deaf studies (culture, literature, folklore, etc.), advanced use of the language, the skills required for interpreting, certification test options and processes, and professionalism (code of conduct, laws, word choice, and exceptional circumstances, including an overview of tactile sign for working with the Deaf-Blind community).
The Interpreter Preparation Program requires the same level of commitment as college-level interpreter training programs, but our class time is abbreviated, and there is no cost for participants. Students must be self-driven and do independent study outside of class time to succeed.
Pre-Requisite: Students must have completed the Wood County Society’s ASL 1 (formerly “Beginner Sign Language”) and demonstrate expressive and receptive competency with basic vocabulary and grammar to participate in ASL 2 and the Interpreter Preparation Program.
Classes are held at the Wood County Society office in downtown Parkersburg. All American Sign Language Classes are free! Wood County Society will provide any material(s) you may need to be successful in the program.
ASL 2 Classes are being scheduled for the August of 2024!
Register for Classes Today!
Additional State-Wide Resources
WV Deaf Service Center – WV Deaf Service Center
National Association of the Deaf – National Association of the Deaf – NAD
West Virginia Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing – WV Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
WV School for the Deaf and the Blind – West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and the Blind | Home (k12.wv.us)
WV Division of Rehabilitation Services – Welcome – WV Division of Rehabilitation Services (wvdrs.org)