Benefits+for+Teachers

A teacher and her students showing off their sign language knowledge.

By using sign language in the classroom, teachers have found:


 * It is a great classroom management style.
 * Teachers enjoy using sign language in their classrooms because it is easier to manage their students. Mrs. Kilburn's article (2009) states, "Incorporating sign language into your early childhood classroom not only assists with classroom management, but it also promotes the long term retention of concepts by utilizing carious modalities during instruction." Students are able to remember if they have to use the bathroom, to use the 'T' sign after only learning it a few times in the beginning of the year. As they begin to learn the ABC's they can also use their prior knowledge and remind themselves using the signs --if they are unable to remember the letter or sound.


 * Students are understanding two languages
 * As a teacher, we want to ensure our students get the best education they can. By allowing them to learn more than one language, students are able to increase their knowledege base. They also have a great base of multiple ways to solve the problem of remembering what a word looks like or sounds like. Teachers also teach students to become more accepting towards all types of students.


 * Increases memory retention
 * When students are using sign language, they are increasing their memory retention. Teachers can incorporate this into all kinds of learning activiites. It is also something they are learning visually, verbally, and kinesthetically at the same time. By doign all of this at once, teachers are able to know their students are reaching their students in more ways than one.


 * Stimulates the mind
 * An interesting thing about sign language is that when teachers practice the signs with their students, they are using both the left and right side of their brain. It can be challenging for teachers to stimulate each student, and this is a great way to fulfill their needs.