This is a question from a lot of teachers. There is a widespread perception that "abstract concepts" like GHC, CRE, and language are extremely difficult to teach deaf children. "It's easier to teach what is practical, like math or science."

Let's say a teacher needs to teach the students about parliament. How can that be done? The answer is to break it down into what they already know and what you want them to learn.

1) What do you want them to learn?

The children should learn parliament's role as a decision-making body and its relationship to other institutions in the government, such as the courts, the president, the military and the police.

2) What concepts do they need to understand in order to understand this new information?

Children should have basic knowledge of what a government is. It would be beneficial if they have a basic understanding of the functions of other institutions.

3) The Problem

They probably don't have this information all coordinated under the larger framework of government. So this means you need to start off teaching them about what government means. Pictures (from the newspaper) are especially good for this.

Who is the president? Why does he matter? Who does he tell what to do? How does it affect people's daily lives? What are courts? What is their purpose? Who do the police work for? Why does the military exist?

So, a simple little task has become a long exposition on basic concepts. Such a heavy topic doesn't sink in on the first day, so pace yourself and try to make it as interesting and relevant as possible. It also helps if children can see how other people (such as teachers) find these topics important. (What effect does the government have on schools, etc.) All of this is a major task and often intimidates teachers into giving up. Stay patient and focused. If things get to be too stressful, give it a rest and try again tomorrow.