Culture and Language: Observing Practice Activity
Total Time: Approx. 60 minutes
Participants discuss the relationship between culture and language before viewing a 15-minute video on using technology to teach the Tsuu T’ina language. After reviewing what they learned in the video, participants discuss methods for teaching culture and language.
The strategies in this activity can be adapted for Observing Practice activities in other topic areas.
Activity 1: Discussion
In pairs, discuss the following questions:
- How does your language reflect your culture?
- What do you think the impact on your identity would be if you were to lose your native language?
- How would you go about reclaiming your language?
In a large group, participants share their understanding of culture and language.
Activity 2: View the Video Bridging the Language Gap with Technology
Overview of video: At the 2009 Knowing Our Spirits Conference, Kendal Jacobs, language instructor at Tsuu T’ina Junior Senior High School, shares his experiences with students using images, pictographs, an interactive white board, an animation project and sign language method called total physical response (TPR). (15:52 minutes)
Activity 3: Discussion
The Cree Language Program of Studies includes the following statement: “Language and culture are inseparable. Both are necessary to instill identity in its fullest sense.” In a large group, discuss how this quote relates to the loss of Indigenous languages and cultures.
In a large group, discuss these questions:
- What were some of the teaching methods used in the video that made language learning engaging for students?
- How would emulating the following practices in your teaching help to restore and solidify connections between culture and language?
- teaching through stories
- teaching through situational context
- teaching through technology
- teaching through the arts
