New Home Movies Resurrect Endangered American Indian Language

The video highlights the endangered status of the Ojibwe language and the efforts of Mary Hermes, a University of Minnesota Duluth professor, to preserve it. By collaborating with tribal elders and using video technology, Hermes creates realistic language lessons that capture everyday conversations. These lessons aim to keep the language alive and accessible to students and linguists. The video also emphasizes the broader benefits of preserving the Ojibwe language, which holds significant cultural and evolutionary knowledge. Hermes' work includes organizing workshops, immersion classes, and developing educational games, all contributing to the language's ongoing evolution.

What is the primary method Mary Hermes uses to preserve the Ojibwe language?

• Writing textbooks

• Recording fluent speakers in everyday situations

• Translating ancient texts

• Conducting online webinars

How do the elders contribute to the language lessons?

• By teaching grammar rules

• By improvising everyday conversations

• By organizing cultural events

• By writing scripts

What is the main goal of the language lessons created by Mary Hermes?

• To create a dictionary

• To translate historical documents

• To capture the essence of daily communication

• To teach formal grammar

What additional efforts has Mary Hermes made to support the Ojibwe language?

• She has created a mobile app

• She has organized workshops and immersion classes

• She has written novels in Ojibwe

• She has started a radio station

Why does Mary Hermes believe preserving the Ojibwe language is important beyond the Ojibwe community?

• It aids in political negotiations

• It increases tourism

• It contributes to human evolution and knowledge

• It helps in creating new dialects