Signing Naturally Workbook and Videotext Expanded Edition : Level 1

Rating:
Summary: It's a good way to begin...
Review: As the Deaf son of an ASL teacher, I have seen this book used in its full capacity. When one looks at the textbook at the surface, one can note that it has superb organization, relevant vocabulary regarding various common topics (i.e. locations, daily activities, etc.), some good cultural information, and a video that serves as a very effective learning tool to build receptive skills and increase understanding of the language itself. One thing, however, that's lacking about this book, is the amount of vocabulary. The most difficult thing about learning a language is the vocabulary aspect, and this book doesn't help much in that aspect. Therefore, my mother uses "A Basic Course In Sign Language" as an supplement to fortify the grammatical and vocabulary aspects of the language. The lack of vocabulary and grammatical concepts nonwithstanding, this is a very good way to start in your endeavour to learn American Sign Language!

Rating:
Summary: It's a good way to begin...
Review: As the Deaf son of an ASL teacher, I have seen this book used in its full capacity. When one looks at the textbook at the surface, one can note that it has superb organization, relevant vocabulary regarding various common topics (i.e. locations, daily activities, etc.), some good cultural information, and a video that serves as a very effective learning tool to build receptive skills and increase understanding of the language itself. One thing, however, that's lacking about this book, is the amount of vocabulary. The most difficult thing about learning a language is the vocabulary aspect, and this book doesn't help much in that aspect. Therefore, my mother uses "A Basic Course In Sign Language" as an supplement to fortify the grammatical and vocabulary aspects of the language. The lack of vocabulary and grammatical concepts nonwithstanding, this is a very good way to start in your endeavour to learn American Sign Language!

Rating:
Summary: Great in conjunction with a class
Review: Basically, I don't see this book and video as all that great a tool if you're trying to learn ASL on your own. It simply cannot stand alone as a self-teaching resource. However, if you are taking a class, or if you have other interaction in the Deaf community, this book will be a great supplemental tool in learning ASL. The workbook activities focus on comprehension and identification, as well as some basic grammar. There is some vocabulary, however not all the vocab is clearly marked. You'll want to buy a definitive ASL dictionary, as well as the aforementioned class or Deaf community interaction [or an in depth teach it yourself course]. This text was a requirement at my University's ASL I course, and in conjunction with the course the text was very helpful.

Rating:
Summary: Great in conjunction with a class
Review: Basically, I don't see this book and video as all that great a tool if you're trying to learn ASL on your own. It simply cannot stand alone as a self-teaching resource. However, if you are taking a class, or if you have other interaction in the Deaf community, this book will be a great supplemental tool in learning ASL. The workbook activities focus on comprehension and identification, as well as some basic grammar. There is some vocabulary, however not all the vocab is clearly marked. You'll want to buy a definitive ASL dictionary, as well as the aforementioned class or Deaf community interaction [or an in depth teach it yourself course]. This text was a requirement at my University's ASL I course, and in conjunction with the course the text was very helpful.

Rating:
Summary: ASL With Ease
Review: I don't know about you, but when it comes to learning languages I usually cringe. For the first time in my life I got an A in a language class, and I know that this book had something to do with it. Inside it is filled with pictures on how to sign, explanations of signs, and awesome Deaf cultural material that is essential to know. Along with the book is a video. I will admit that it is hokey, but if you can stand to watch the 20-min sessions you will learn a lot. The book, however, is not intended to be used as a self-teaching guide. You need to have someone either teaching you correct signing methods, or helping you in some way in order for the book to be used in it's greatest capacity. On a whole this book is a great tool to learn both ASL and about the Deaf culture.

Rating:
Summary: This book was used to teach at my church
Review: The book is excellent and has been used in previous sign language classes that I have helped out at my church and has successfully bridged the gap between the hearing and deaf members at the church to a degree where many of them had a continued interest to even help the other interpreters with the church songs! While the book was most used, the tape was "so-so" but useful for those times away from class and away from the exposure of other deaf at the church.

Rating:
Summary: Good Text
Review: This series is very helpful, even if you're teaching yourself.
The video is a very nice addition, and it gets one usedto silent conversation....