How can AI be used in education by teachers? I decided to start with content creation by linking the idea of AI with my inquiry of ASL learning. I asked ChatGPT to create a lesson plan for high school students to learn about ASL. I am so impressed by what it came up with.

By following the lesson plan it provided me, high school students could gain a foundational understanding of ASL, its importance, and a basic ability to communicate using sign language. Additionally, they will develop an appreciation for Deaf culture and the significance of inclusivity and accessibility in our society.

For the sake of our EdTech class, I wanted a lesson plan that included more online resources and visual content. I asked ChatGPT to expand given my need for visual resources. This is what I got:

Here’s the revised lesson plan with web and video resources:

Lesson Plan: Introduction to American Sign Language (ASL)

Grade Level: High School (9-12)

Subject: American Sign Language (ASL)

Duration: 90 minutes (1.5 class periods)

Materials Needed:

  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Handouts with ASL alphabet and basic signs
  • Projector and screen for videos
  • Access to a computer or mobile device with internet access
  • Deaf culture and ASL-related images
  • Website and video links (as mentioned)

Lesson Objectives:

  1. Understand the importance of American Sign Language (ASL) as a unique form of communication for Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals.
  2. Learn the ASL alphabet and basic signs.
  3. Gain an appreciation for Deaf culture and its significance.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction (15 minutes)

  • Begin with a brief discussion about the importance of learning ASL, including its role in promoting accessibility and inclusivity.
  • Share some fascinating facts about ASL and Deaf culture.
  • Show a short video clip that introduces the basics of ASL and highlights its importance.

Websites and Video Links:

Part 1: The ASL Alphabet (20 minutes)

  • Present the ASL alphabet using a whiteboard or projector.
  • Teach the students how to sign each letter and practice together.
  • Provide handouts with the ASL alphabet for reference.

Websites and Video Links:

Part 2: Basic ASL Signs (25 minutes)

  • Introduce a few basic ASL signs for everyday words like “hello,” “please,” “thank you,” and “goodbye.”
  • Model and practice these signs, emphasizing proper handshape, movement, and facial expressions.
  • Encourage students to pair up and practice signing these words to each other.

Websites and Video Links:

Part 3: Deaf Culture Awareness (15 minutes)

  • Discuss the importance of understanding and respecting Deaf culture.
  • Share images and stories related to Deaf culture and significant Deaf individuals.
  • Talk about the importance of using culturally sensitive language when discussing Deafness and Deaf individuals.

Websites and Video Links:

  • [Deaf Culture Presentation (Insert Google Slides or Website Link)]
  • [Deaf History and Culture Video](Insert YouTube Link)

Part 4: Group Activity (15 minutes)

  • Divide the class into groups and provide each group with a scenario involving a Deaf individual.
  • In their groups, students should create a short dialogue using the ASL alphabet and basic signs to convey the scenario.
  • Each group presents their dialogue to the class.

Websites and Video Links:

  • [Group Activity Scenario Cards (Insert PDF Link)]
  • [ASL Dialogue Presentation (Insert Google Slides or Website Link)]

Conclusion (10 minutes)

  • Summarize the key points of the lesson, highlighting the importance of ASL in communication and Deaf culture.
  • Encourage students to continue learning ASL and exploring Deaf culture.
  • Provide resources for further study and practice, including recommended websites and ASL learning apps.

Websites and Video Links:

  • [ASL Learning Resources (Insert Website Link)]
  • [ASL App Recommendations (Insert Website Link)]

Assessment:

  • Evaluate student participation and engagement during the group activity.
  • Assess students’ ability to use the ASL alphabet and basic signs correctly.
  • Encourage students to ask questions and participate in class discussions to gauge their understanding and interest in the topic.

Homework:

  • Assign a short ASL project for students to create a simple video introducing themselves using the ASL alphabet and a few basic signs.
  • Encourage students to explore ASL websites and apps for additional practice and learning resources.

By incorporating websites and video links into the lesson plan, high school students will have easy access to visual resources that can reinforce their learning of ASL and deepen their understanding of Deaf culture.

Within moments I have a comprehensive lesson plan to get started in the classroom! Now I can go through the lesson and focus on where I can include our Core Competencies which we are learning in other classes.

What I found unique about the information ChatGPT provided was the element of assessment at the bottom. I think the value of AI in teaching is its use as a resource, a starting block, and an inspiration.