At Aberfoyle Hub Primary School, students in all year levels study Auslan.
Classes have 2x 50 minute lessons per week in the Auslan Room in Unit 5.
What is Auslan?
Auslan is short for Australian Sign Language. It is a natural language that has developed over time by the signing Deaf community in Australia. He Australian Government recognized Auslan as a community language in 1991.
Auslan is made up of fingerspelling, handshapes, movements and facial expressions. It has its own grammar, syntax and lexicon. There are two main dialects of Auslan – Northern Dialect and Southern Dialect. Some vocabulary can be different between regions but there are only minor differences in grammar and syntax.
Why learn Auslan?
Learning Auslan is important because it fosters inclusivity and enhances communication with the Deaf community. By learning Auslan, we break down barriers, promote equality, and ensure that Deaf individuals can participate fully in society. It also broadens our understanding of diverse cultures and perspectives, enriching both personal and professional relationships. Additionally, learning a new language like Auslan stimulates the brain and improves cognitive skills.
What a lesson looks like
Students begin each lesson with a finger warm up to help activate fine motor muscles in the hands before reviewing previous learning and then exploring new vocabulary. Students explore the language and culture of the Deaf community by learning norms and expectations, they practise scripts for effective communication and interact through activities and play.