Rabbit Trail: Speak like an Ojibwa

Estimated Time: 10-15 minutes

The Ojibwa language is one of the Algonquin languages of the people of North America. The author lists a Glossary and Pronunciation Guide in the back of the book. You can refer to it as you come across words in the text that are from the Ojibwa language. Write down those words in your journal and translate them.

The link below is an Ojibwa dictionary. It can be used to look up Ojibwa words and translate them. You can even listen to some of the words to learn how they are pronounced.

The Ojibwe People's Dictionary

The Ojibwe People's Dictionary is a searchable, talking Ojibwe-English dictionary that features the voices of Ojibwe speakers. It is also a gateway into the Ojibwe collections at the Minnesota Historical Society. Along with detailed Ojibwe language entries and voices, you will find beautiful cultural items, photographs, and excerpts from relevant historical documents.

Many of the original Native American languages are no longer spoken. The video explains why the Ojibwa language is disappearing and how professors are trying to save it and others.

Why do you think the government once banned speaking and learning Native American languages? Do you think that was right or wrong? Tell us in the comments.

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