Ethnographic Research for English 110: Media

This is the first documentary about Black ASL: the unique dialect of American Sign Language (ASL) that developed within historically segregated African American Deaf communities. Black ASL today conveys an identity and sense of belonging that mirrors spoken language varieties of the African American hearing community. The program highlights the different uses of space, hand use, directional movement, and facial expression, which are ways that Black ASL distinguishes itself as a vibrant dialect of American Sign Language. The African American Deaf community is now embracing their unique variety as a symbol of solidarity and a vital part of their identity.

Executive produced by Academy Award-winner Marlee Matlin, this new documentary special follows three predominantly deaf families as they raise their children in a hearing world.

Fashions available to seven-year-old girls are wide-ranging. Girls often choose clothing of celebrities or toys such as Bratz dolls. In general, they head for adult looks. Boys head straight for the gangster look. A BBC Production.

The Amish rarely allow themselves to be photographed or filmed, yet several members of the isolated religious community agreed to appear in this eye-opening documentary. Filmed on location in Pennsylvania and Ohio Amish country, the program goes beyond stereotypes and common misconceptions, presenting a fully human portrait of a misunderstood people. Interviews with Amish men and women—some born into the religion, some converts from other parts of the U.S.—reveal a range of opinions and sensibilities within the group’s traditional stance on technology, education, and worship. Highlighting the rapid growth of the Amish population and their changing attitudes toward electricity, cell phones, cars, and other modern conveniences, the program will expand viewers’ understanding of the Amish and the ways that American subcultures adapt to mainstream society. (54 minutes)