Level 1: Certificate In British Sign Language
This course follows the qualification specification set out by Signature.
Qualification Aim
This qualification is designed to teach learners to communicate with Deaf people in British Sign Language (BSL) on a range of themes that involve simple, everyday language use. They will gain basic skills and confidence in production and reception of BSL.
Qualification Objectives
At the end of the qualification, learners will be able to:
- Understand and use a limited range of simple words and sentences in BSL
- Take part in simple, everyday conversations in BSL
- Give and follow simple directions or instructions in BSL
- Give and follow simple familiar statements or descriptions in BSL
Qualification Structure
The qualification is divided into three units, each of which can be achieved separately. However, all three units must be awarded a pass for the full Level 1 Award in British Sign Language, the units are as follows:
| Unit Code | Unit Title | Unit Description |
|---|---|---|
| BSL101 | Introduction to BSL | For more details of each module’s contents, please download full specification. |
| BSL102 | Conversational BSL | |
| BSL103 | Communication in BSL about everyday life |
Length of Course
The course consists of over 60 guided learning hours plus about 20 hours of additional study outside the classroom. This will include access to online learning resources.
| Unit Code | Guided Learning Hours (GLH) | Additional Study Hours | Total Learning Time | Credit Value (Level 1) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSL101 | 20 | 10 | 30 |
3 |
| BSL102 | 22 | 8 | 30 |
3 |
| BSL103 | 22 | 8 | 30 |
3 |
| TOTAL | 64 | 26 | 90 | 9 |
Topics & Content
The following areas will be covered:
- Meeting people (family, friends, colleagues)
- School, College, Work (daily routines)
- Using Numbers
- Weather
- Instructions and Directions
- Requesting clarification
- Simple linking conventions and signing structure
Target Group
No previous experience of British Sign Language is required for entry into a programme leading to the Level 1 Award in BSL Studies.
The Level 1 Award in BSL Studies is suitable for those who:
- wish to acquire basic British Sign Language skills for the purpose of holding simple communication with Deaf people, including by family, friends and colleagues;
- need to acquire BSL skills as part of a programme of study or professional development;
- are studying for personal development with a view to future employment.
Assessment
| Unit Code | Assessment Method | Marked By |
|---|---|---|
| BSL101 | A basic conversation between teacher and candidate. The pass mark for the assessment is 85%. |
Tutor |
| BSL102 | Recorded one-to-one chat with tutor/assessor (4-5 mins) based on specified themes demonstrating receptive and productive skills. The pass mark for this assessment is 50%. |
Signature |
| BSL103 | Recorded one-to-one chat with assessor from a list of specified topics demonstrating receptive and productive skills (4-5 mins). The pass mark for this assessment is 50%. |
Signature |
For more details of each module’s assessment criteria and procedures, please see the full specification document.