Generalization & Rationale Objectives Introductory Activity Lesson Part 1 Language Lesson Part 2 Media Lesson Part 3 The Arts Print Lesson & Worksheets

Lesson 1A - Part 1: Language

As Cree is the largest language group in Alberta, students will learn a few simple words and phrases. This would be an excellent time to invite a Cree person within the community to provide a presentation on the Cree language. This will allow students to hear firsthand what the language sounds like, and how it is interwoven with culture. Students may also use the Student Zone of the Culture and Its Meaning Edukit to explore examples of the Cree language. Students will complete the 'Getting to Know the Cree Language' worksheet and the 'Translate the EnglishWords to Cree Words' worksheet. Both worksheets are shown below.

Getting to Know the Cree Language

1. How many Cree dialects are there? List. (5: Plains 'Y', Swampy 'N', Moose Cree 'L', Wood Cree 'TH', and Atihkamek Cree 'R')
2. List the consonants in the plains Cree language: (p, t, c, k, s, h, m, n)
3. List the vowels in the plains Cree language: (short: i, a, o long: î, â, ô, e)
4. What is a semi-vowel? How many are there? (there are two semi vowels 'w' and 'y')
5. What is a diphthong? (the sound that occurs when a vowel is combined with a semi-vowel w or y)

Translate the English words to Cree Words

Distribute the 'What is in a language' worksheet to students to be completed after they translate the English/Cree words.

What's in a Language?

1. Why do you think language is important?
2. What is the definition of language?
3. How is language a part of our culture?
4. Do you think all people should speak the same language? Why or why not?
5. Give an example of two words that describe your culture.
6. How would you feel if someone told you that you could no longer speak your own language and that you had to learn a new one?
7. What other languages would you like to learn?

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