Monday, October 15, 2012

Language eLearning: Choctaw Nation language program

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma has an excellent language website

I've been taking Choctaw I online since August.  The textbook we are using is "Choctaw Language and Culture" by Marcia Haag and Henry Willis.  Three mornings a week I log on to the class website.  After practicing vocabulary by entering the date and the daily weather (see below), we review a section of the book via webcam.  Our teacher is Ms. Lillie Roberts.  She is very knowledgeable and emphasizes the importance of reading out loud, listening  and understanding fundamentals.

What I'm finding particularly challenging is the use of a different alphabet than the alphabet used at CBTC.  I find myself having to double check my spelling!

I like having a steady, consistent time to do language learning.  As anyone who's learned a new language knows, you have to be intentional

Himak nittak vt Mvnti Aktoba awah tahlapi.
Himak nittak kucha yA libisha. 

For clarification:
The Mississippi Band of the Choctaw Indians is the tribal entity that CBTC serves.  The MCBI website also has information about language and culture.