British Sign Language (BSL) / Makaton
Sign Language is a visual means of communicating using gestures, facial expression, and body language. Sign Language is used mainly by people who are Deaf or have hearing impairments. Makaton is a smilar form of communication, however Makaton is a unique language programme that uses symbols, signs and speech to enable people to communicate. It supports the development of essential communication skills such as attention and listening, comprehension, memory, recall and organisation of language and expression.
On a Monday during assembly, Mrs Vass has been teaching the children at least one new sign each week. These are everyday signs which would allow them to communicate with someone who is deaf, albeit in a very basic way at this stage, however it would allow both people to feel that they are able to begin communicating with each other with a small amount of common understanding. Some of the signs link to our School Values and some will link to the festivals we celebrate in school such as Harvest and Christmas.
Signs learnt so far:
- Good Morning - Feelings - Angry - Merry Christmas
- Sing / Singing - Emotions - Play - Happy Christmas
- Everyone - Happy - Tree
- Celebration - Sad - Inspire
- Sign - Bored - Nurture (although this one has been very tricky!)
Year R are also learning some signs in class - they use the Mr Tumble Videos to help them, which you can access below!
You can also 'finger spell' as part of British Sign Language - we have learnt to sign 'BSL' and will learn some more of the signs for different letters soon!
