How to Learn American Indian Languages

American Indians were the original inhabitants of North America. The Native Languages website explains that there are more than 800 indigenous languages that are used by the American Indians. Although there were many different tribes throughout the various portions of the United States all of them have a rich heritage and culture. Not many individuals learn American Indian languages because of the lack of material or information that is available. It is possible to learn American Indian languages in order to honor the traditions and histories of various tribes.

Things You'll Need

  • Computer with Internet access
  • Learning materials
  • Instructor
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine what American Indian language the individual wants to learn. Due to the large number of American Indian languages, it is important to locate a specific language in order to begin the studying process. The Indians website has an online directory that will assist the individual in locating a tribe and language based on the location in the United States.

    • 2

      Consider why the individual wants to learn an American Indian language. It can be beneficial to learn a language that was used in the surrounding geographic area in order to increase the likelihood of finding a local American Indian teacher who speaks the specific dialect. The American Eagle website is an example of an individual who holds classes, workshops and seminars on the Choctaw heritage.

    • 3

      Locate a learning source online whether the individual manages to find a local teacher or he begins using online materials in order to study the chosen language. The Native Languages website is an example of a resource that offers vocabulary lists, tribal history, pronunciation guides, worksheets and picture dictionaries. Begin to study and learn the American Indian language through regular practice and repetition.

    • 4

      Locate a way to practice speaking the American Indian language and using the materials that have been learned. The My Languages Exchange website is an organization that connects individuals who speak or are learning the same foreign language. The individual can be paired with another person in order to exchange voice chats, e-mails and texts in the specific American Indian language.

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