This course represents American Culture's long-standing commitment to Ojibwe language instruction and preservation. We will make every effort to offer a four-semester sequence so that students can use it to satisfy their LSA language distribution. Students should be aware, however, that remarkable circumstances might not make it possible for the department to do so. If you have questions or concerns, please contact ac.ug.services@umich.edu.
The course will serve as an introduction to Anishinaabe language and culture. This course is for students who have no previous knowledge of the tribe as well as tribal members interested in learning more about their culture and language. Because Ojibwe is an endangered language, it is of utmost importance that we make sure the language is learned and used. This is a beautiful language with much to teach about living in this place. It deserves to be revitalized for future generations.
After completing AMCULT 222 students should be able to use Ojibwe to:
- Respond to and initiate simple statements and commands such as greetings and introductions.
- Understand 250 – 500 words.
- Express reactions and courtesy phrases.
- Express likes and dislikes.
- Describe actions, people, places, and things using short phrases.
- Be able to read standardized orthography with correct pronunciation.
- Recognize key characters and events found in traditional stories.
- Know the basic chronological history of the Anishinaabe in the U.S. and Southern Ontario.
Class Format:
We will have each lesson discussions that will require synchronous participation. The weekly lectures for this course will be recorded and made available asynchronously. This course will use Canvas for all asynchronous online components. Optional synchronous meetings with the instructor will be conducted through Zoom. Testing for this course will be in-person and will consist of short answer and matching questions. Grading will be completed and posted the same day as the exam. While there will be midterm and final exams, the most important component of the course will be class participation. Students should have access to an internet-connected computer, camera and microphone.