Practice learning BSL 102

[Jemimah]

Hi, I'm learning BSL 102 by myself and struggling a bit with the signs required for the exam. If anyone would like to practice with me that would be nice as I have my exam in July. THANK YOU

[Jemimah]

Ok, thank you! 

So for describing family, do you know the signs of black (skin color), older, younger, twin. And do you know anything about the BSL Syntax/word structure as I'm struggling with that. Thank you very much ☺️

[Jemimah]

Hi Kieran,

Thanks so much for your help! If I have any more questions I will ask.

[Prue Heriot Maitland]

I have just done my BSL level 1 and am now starting level 2 so would love to have an online practice . Let me know if you are still interested. Prue

[Lead Academy]

To practice learning BSL 102, which typically focuses on building conversational skills and expanding your vocabulary, here's a guide to help you strengthen your foundation and progress effectively:

1. Learn and Review Key Vocabulary

• Everyday Phrases: Make sure you're comfortable with basic conversational signs like greetings, asking for directions, expressing feelings, and talking about your day-to-day activities.
• Expand Categories: Focus on expanding your vocabulary across various topics such as food, transportation, emotions, and time (e.g., days of the week, months, seasons).
• Flashcards: Use BSL flashcards to test and reinforce vocabulary. You can create your own physical flashcards or use apps like Anki or Quizlet to make digital flashcards.

2. Practice Sentence Construction

• Basic Sentences: Start forming simple sentences, paying attention to word order and grammar. For example, practice signs for “I am going to the shop,” or “What is your name?”
• Practice with Common Phrases: Common phrases include greetings, saying your name, where you're from, and asking simple questions like “How are you?”
• Storytelling: Try to tell short stories using the signs you’ve learned. This helps with forming complete sentences and thinking in BSL.

3. Watch BSL Content

• YouTube Channels: Follow YouTube channels like BSL Zone, Sign With Us, or BBC BSL for useful video lessons, real-life conversations, and learning tips.
• BSL TV Shows: Watching TV shows in BSL can help you get used to the flow of conversation, accents, and regional signs.
• BSL Online Communities: Join online forums or Facebook groups where people practice and share content related to BSL. These communities might also have video lessons or peer-learning opportunities.

4. Practice Signing with Others

• Find Practice Partners: Pair up with other learners or native signers to practice. This could be online or in-person. Apps like Tandem or local meetup groups may help you connect with others.
• Language Exchange: Use platforms like HelloTalk or SignIt to find people who are willing to practice with you and provide feedback on your signs.
• Deaf Events or Clubs: Attend local Deaf events or clubs to immerse yourself in the language. Engaging in live conversations will improve your fluency and help you learn natural expressions.

5. Receptive Skills Practice

• Watch Signed Conversations: Focus on practicing receptive skills by watching conversations in BSL and trying to follow along. There are many free resources online that provide BSL dialogues.
• Receptive Practice Websites/Apps: Consider using apps like BSL Learner or SignMaster to practice recognizing signs in videos. These apps often offer quizzes and practice sessions tailored to beginners and intermediate learners.

6. Review Grammar and Sentence Structure

• Focus on Word Order: In BSL, the sentence structure might differ from English. Practice using the correct word order, which is often topic-comment (e.g., "I restaurant go" instead of "I am going to the restaurant").
• Use Non-manual Signals (NMS): Pay attention to facial expressions, head tilts, and body posture, as these are integral parts of BSL grammar.
• Learn Questions and Negations: Practice asking yes/no questions and using question markers like raising your eyebrows for yes/no questions or using a head tilt for wh-questions (e.g., who, what, where).

7. Use BSL Dictionaries and Resources

• BSL Dictionaries: Use an online BSL dictionary like BSL SignBank or Sign Dictionary to look up signs and watch them in action.
• BSL Apps: Apps like Sign BSL or BSL Pro can help you with a wide variety of signs and make practice more interactive.
• Practice Videos: Use online platforms like Sign With Us or BSL Courses to access practice videos specifically designed for learners at the 102 level.

8. Review Regularly

• Consistent Practice: Regular, short practice sessions (even 15 minutes a day) are better than long, sporadic study sessions.
• Repetition: Go back to the signs and phrases you've learned regularly. This helps reinforce memory and make the signs stick.

9. Take Part in Online BSL Courses

• Courses: Look into structured BSL courses that provide a curriculum for levels like 102. These are available online (like BSL Courses or DeafAction). Many offer interactive videos and assignments that will help you with structured practice.
• Quizzes: Some courses offer quizzes after each lesson, which can test your understanding and improve both receptive and productive skills.

10. Get Feedback

• Ask for Feedback: If you have a teacher or a mentor, ask for feedback on your signing. If you are practicing with other learners, encourage them to give constructive criticism.
• Peer Learning: Share videos of your signing with others to get helpful tips.