The use of Sign Language as a tool to assist communication skills with young learners

Sign Language, in this case British Sign Language (BSL), is a complete language with a unique vocabulary, construction, grammar and regional variations. This video draws attention to some of the theory and research behind the benefits of using Sign Language with pre-verbal, non-verbal and verbal learners.

It provides viewers with some basic skills in British Sign Language, sign-posting useful resources for further development.

Simple, practical ways in which BSL can be used to assist language acquisition for bilingual learners is also demonstrated, with the focus being on very young pupils.

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Hazel Bowen
An Early Years Teacher, currently working in Nursery (3-4 year olds) at the British Council School, Madrid. Hazel holds a middle-management post and is responsible for a small team of colleagues across two year groups. She has been working in Madrid for 10 years and has been teaching for over 15 years. Her main experience lies in the Early Years, although she has worked with pupils up to 11 years old.

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