Describing Urban Birds: Developing the Scientific Communication Skills of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Students

• In Event: Research on the Education of Deaf Persons

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the structure of middle school deaf and hard of hearing students’ written and signed communication of scientific observations during Strategic and Interactive Writing Instruction. During a three-week unit, a class of sixth grade deaf and hard of hearing students was provided with instruction on urban birds and local habitats. Lessons focused on characteristics of non-migratory birds, field markers for identification purposes, habitat assessment, ecological roles of urban birds, and anthropogenic impacts on bird habitats. The data presented in this presentation focuses on the physical characteristics of birds and using strategic and interactive instructional approaches to support students in communicating scientific observations through ASL and written English.

Authors

• Shannon C. Graham, California State University - Fresno

• Hannah M. Dostal, Southern Connecticut State University

• Kimberly Wolbers