Native American Languages and Their Speakers

4 units · Undergraduate upper division (100-199)

(Same as Anthropology M155.) Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour (when scheduled). Requisite: course M10 or Anthropology 4. Introduction and comparative analysis of sociocultural aspects of language ideologies and language use in indigenous speech communities through Americas. Examination of cultural diversity of discourse practices for both everyday forms of speaking as well as special registers used in particular cultural contexts. Role of language and communication in Native American education contexts is also examined. Considerable attention is paid to Native American verbal art because of its cultural importance. Examination also of language shift away and current efforts by indigenous groups to reclaim and revitalize heritage languages. Role of linguistic racism directed at Native Americans and hegemonic influence of nation-states is also examined. P/NP or letter grading.