Anishinaabemowin - Immersion

Ontario College Certificate (1 Year - 2 Semesters) (1033)

About the Program

This unique one-year certificate program is the only one of its kind found in Ontario Community Colleges. Students will have the opportunity to become immersed in the Ojibwe language 95% of the course time. Utilizing an immersion-based approach to learning language, this program is designed to enable students to develop a level of conversational fluency in which to effectively communicate in Ojibwe. Implementation of originally designed curriculum and utilization of effective teaching modes will provide students with a learning environment that is not only conducive to language learning but also provides a connection to First Nation traditions, culture and values.

This program will have multiple delivery modes: full and part-time and distance delivery. Please contact the college for more information.

Program of Study

Semester 1
Odibaajimotaadwin I (Storytelling I) (NLG100)
Zhibiigewin I (Writing I) (NLG102)
Namewin I (Cultural Identity I) (NLG104)
Nigamowin I (Singing I) (NLG106)

Semester 2
Odibaajimotaadwin II (Storytelling II) (NLG110)
Zhibiigewin II (Writing II) (NLG112)
Namewin II (Cultural Identity II) (NLG114)
Nigamowin II (Singing II) (NLG116)

Where You’ll Work

Graduates will possess a level of competency with the Ojibwe language and culture that will increase their marketability in linguistic, educational, social service and the criminal justice fields in relation to dealing with Aboriginal communities and clients.

What You’ll Need

Ontario Secondary School diploma with Grade 12 English (C) ENG4C, or mature student status.

Get a Degree

Graduates of the Anishinaabemowin language program may use their knowledge as a stepping stone for further education. Discussions are currently underway to formalize articulation agreements for advanced standing in degree programs with other post-secondary institutes.

Course Descriptions

Semester 1

Odibaajimotaadwin I (Storytelling I) (NLG100) (6 credits)
This course is an introduction to basic storytelling methods and legends. Through the use of a variety of exercises in the oral tradition, students will begin to develop competency in speaking the language. Use of a language lab will be available to provide students with special assistance required for pronunciation. Emphasis is placed on listening to and speaking the language.

Zhibiigewin I (Writing I) (NLG102) (6 credits)
This course is designed to introduce students to the structure of Ojibwe orthography. Students will have the opportunity to read and compose written text in the language as well as begin to explore Ojibwe storytelling, legends and oratory. Emphasis is placed on reading and writing the Ojibwe language.

Namewin I (Cultural Identity I) (NLG104) (6 credits)
The course will begin to explore Native values and spirituality and, in particular, how Anishinaabemowin reflects culture. Orthography learned in Zhibiigewin I will be reinforced. Emphasis will be placed on listening in order to develop language comprehension.

Nigamowin I (Singing I) (NLG106) (6 credits)
Nigamowin utilizes a variety of contemporary and traditional songs to reinforce learning. Students will have the opportunity to comprehend and learn songs in the Anishinaabemowin as well as begin to translate a variety of songs. Students will begin to recognize the role of tradition and ritual in the art of singing.

Semester 2

Odibaajimotaadwin II (Storytelling II) (NLG110) (6 credits)
This course is designed to reinforce concepts learned in Odibaajimotaadwin I. Students will begin to consolidate and develop their ability to use the Ojibwe language in oral communication. The course aims to expand the students' active vocabulary for everyday dialogue.

Zhibiigewin II (Writing II) (NLG112) (6 credits)
A continuation of Zhibiigewin I, this course will reinforce concepts introduced in Zhibiigewin I. Consisting of advanced writing exercises, such as translation of text in Ojibwe and English, emphasis will be placed on proper sentence structure and grammar.

Namewin II (Cultural Identity II) (NLG114) (6 credits)
Namewin II will expand on the concepts learned in Namewin I. Students will be exposed to opportunities to participate and observe in ceremonial practises and observances conducted in the Ojibwe language. Students will also explore the concepts of traditional versus contemporary (Western) world views.

Nigamowin II (Singing II) (NLG116) (6 credits)
A continuation of Nigamowin I, emphasis will be placed on speaking/singing in the Ojibwe language. Students will refine language skills and develop self-confidence and self-discipline in language learning through rehearsal, practice and revision.