School Subjects
Deaf students can study virtually all school subjects – including European languages – if the right coaching is given with any weaker subjects.
In Ireland, exemption from Irish language classes is routine, especially if the student’s English is still developing when their class starts to learn Irish.
Clever time-tabling of Irish classes may free a student to see a resource teacher or speech therapist at these times, or to review their own classwork.
Extra tuition may be needed with English and maths, as abstract concepts can be difficult for a deaf student to grasp in the classroom environment.
In post-primary, the student should choose subjects they enjoy (if possible) and are good at. This will make school work easier and more satisfying.
Deaf students with good English language skills are able to learn European languages the same way they did English – visually, and through reading.
Even if the oral or aural component of an exam has to be waived, there’s no reason for a deaf student not to learn additional languages if they wish.
The same applies to music. If a student enjoys music, and wants to learn guitar (for example) as a subject, or for recreation, that’s great.
Sport is an excellent integrator for all deaf students. Post-aural (behind-ear) hearing-aids can be worn for hockey or soccer, but not rugby or Gaelic.
Students with cochlear implants can enjoy most sports, except boxing, rugby & martial arts. A helmet is advised for sports with potential contact.
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