colors, numbers, and animals

[Wayne Leman]

A number of methods are used for teaching indigenous languages. One that seems commonly used for teaching Native American languages in the U.S. is a focus on memorization of colors, numbers, and names of animals.

Does anyone know where this approach to language teaching originated? Might it reflect how the teachers themselves were taught English in boarding or reservation schools? Might it reflect perceived requirements on the part of school, state, or federal administrators?

Do any of you know of any programs where there has been a shift from memorization of word lists toward creating conversational fluency in the indigenous language?


Wayne
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