Garifuna Language Workbook

Book excerpt: This workbook attempts to address the needs of a variety of students. Some studentswill have no knowledge of the Garifuna language. Others may understand the language, butthey may not feel comfortable speaking it. Still others may be fluent in the language, and theywant to learn to write in Garifuna. This workbook therefore combines traditional language-learning methodologies (for example, vocabulary lists) with a variety of other exercises, including frequent use of Garifuna narratives in the lessons. In addition, some exercisesexpect students to find someone in their family or among their friends to help them learnGarifuna. This focus on finding a mentor has been a successful component of other languagerevitalization movements, and therefore it is highly encouraged throughout this text.Students may approach this workbook in a variety of ways. It should be considered asupplement to classroom activities at the Garifuna Language and Culture Academy. Classesgive students the necessary interactions and involvement with the language. Yet moststudents need daily work in order to develop language fluency. This workbook providesguidance and exercises to do throughout the week. For students with little or no backgroundin the language, completing the majority of exercises is necessary. Other students may selectthe exercises that best fit their needs. Each lesson contains a section on grammar, sometimeslike a foreign language to students. If you have little knowledge of grammar or linguistics, look first to the examples given in the grammar sections. Read through the grammar if youdo not understand the examples. For students with more advanced knowledge of thelanguage, some exercises may be skipped while others (such as translating narratives) willprovide needed practice in reading and writing the language.This workbook is a first step in developing curriculum materials for the study of theGarifuna language. We welcome your feedback. Seremei