Northeastern University

Language Enhancement

Workshop Topic : LANGUAGE ENHANCEMENT

ASL SEMANTICS FOR INTERPRETERS
MJ Bienvenu

How do you know if what you mean is correctly conveyed when you express yourself in ASL? Did you know that many verbs in ASL can only be used correctly in a limited number of contexts? This workshop includes understanding the meaning of semantics, categories of verbs and other signs in ASL, usage and small group work. This workshop also covers some of the common errors made by second language users of ASL.

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ASL STRUCTURE FOR INTERPRETERS
MJ Bienvenu

This workshop, for Deaf and hearing participants, takes an in-depth look at the linguistics of ASL. You will be taught in detail how ASL builds signs (phonology) and modifies their meanings (morphology), how ASL signs are ordered (syntax), and how ideas are organized to build a full text (discourse).

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ASL ENHANCEMENT
MJ Bienvenu
Presented in ASL

Many interpreters who have reached a certain level of ASL proficiency feel they don't need to refine their skills or they don't know where to begin. MJ will identify some common patterns in interpreters' sign production, grammar, and syntax, and demonstrate how the linguistic features and rules of ASL can, with accurate processing, be applied to refine these areas. This workshop is appropriate for interpreters at all levels and for Deaf ASL Mentors.

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USE OF SPACE
MJ Bienvenu

Intended for novice interpreters, advanced students, and recent graduates, this training will define "use of space" in the context of up-to-date research. Activities will give participants the opportunity to become more conscious and adept at the use of space, retention of space, reading space, and mirror or "retro-mirror" effects. Presented in ASL. CMP Level: Intermediate.

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VISUAL IMAGERY FOR INTERPRETERS
Eileen Forestal

This course will provide an overview and study and skill development of visual imagery, which is vital for developing ASL and interpreting skills. Students will develop strategies, techniques and skills for visual discrimination, visual memory and visualization. Activities in the tasks of using visual imagery in interpreting will be provided through interactive activities and group work. This course is taught in Visual-Gestures and ASL.

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AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE LITERATURE AND STORYTELLING
Eileen Forestal

This all day or weekend workshop will focus on an overview and study of ASL Literature and Storytelling. In ASL, there will be a lecture and discussions on the various genres of ASL literature, storytelling, folklore and poetry. Participants will work, in groups, on ASL literature, poetry, creative play and storytelling and demonstrate their work to the class for discussion. Videotapes will be used to show models of the genres in ASL Literature and to use for demonstration and analysis for skill application.

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NO, NONE, NOTHING, NOT--GRAMMAR AND SEMANTICS OF ASL NEGATION
Paul Schreyer
Presented in ASL

Are you sometimes unsure how to choose the semantically correct negative form and facial cue for a given context and meaning? Through demonstration, discussion, and hands-on practice, participants in this workshop will have the opportunity to learn to recognize and correct common errors and to improve their understanding of and facility with various forms of ASL negation.

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STRATEGIES FOR ASL ENHANCEMENT
Paul Schreyer
Presented in ASL

Whether you consider yourself a mentor or a protege -- or both -- or whether you are a Deaf interpreter or a hearing interpreter, you may find something of interest in this session. Paul will present a variety of techniques, media, and resources for working on improving aspects of interpreters' ASL.

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ASL CLASSIFIERS IN A NUTSHELL
James Womack
Presented in ASL

This highly intensive and participatory workshop will use a variety of media (photos, video segments of ads, TV shows, and movies) to demonstrate the role and use of classifiers in ASL. Participants will gain a rudimentary understanding of the use of classifiers in some spoken languages as distinct from their use in ASL, have opportunities to practice using classifiers in hands-on activities, and leave with a sense of how to maintain and further the skills picked up in the workshop.

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ENGLISH EXPANSION FOR INTERPRETERS
Betty M. Colonomos

Often as interpreters our focus has been on developing our ASL skills and awareness of Deaf culture. However, interpretation inherently requires a working knowledge of at least two languages. Most English courses taken at the secondary and post-secondary level do not provide interpreters with the type of knowledge needed about English for interpretation. This workshop will explore the use of register and transitions in English and the ways English speakers formulate goals, convey major points, and deliver their message. This training is available in variety of formats (minimum one full day).

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