Yup'ik Language and Culture from edX

Ilargakut! This introductory course guides students through the Yugtun language with a focus on cultural traditions and connection to the land. Learn communication skills, build knowledge of the language, and appreciate the cultural values that underpin this unique language.

Yugtun is an indigenous language spoken by the Yup’ik/Yupiaq people, primarily in the southwestern region of Alaska and in eastern Siberian Russia. It is the most widely spoken indigenous language in Alaska, but the number of fluent and native speakers has declined. This course, which focuses specifically on the Central Yup’ik dialect of the lower Kuskokwim delta, invites you to start learning the language that breathes life into Yup'ik/Yupiaq stories, traditions, and their deep-rooted connection to the land.

This AlaskaX course begins with an exploration of the fundamental aspects of the language, delving into its deep connections with Yup'ik customs and ways of life. Engaging lessons and interactive exercises will guide you through the linguistic structure of Central Yugtun. You will learn how to construct simple phrases and sentences, ask and answer questions, respond to commands, and make requests. Just as crucial as learning vocabulary and grammar, each module introduces you to different aspects of Yup’ik culture and explores the intricate interplay between language and culture. You will hear stories, told in Yugtun, and learn about the Yup’ik cultural values that affect/influence/impact how Yugtun is spoken.

Enroll in this course and become a part of celebrating, revitalizing, and sustaining Yugtun and Yup’ik culture!

What you'll learn

Recognize the alphabet, sounds, and unique linguistic features of Central Yugtun
Comprehend and reply to basic commands and questions
Construct simple phrases and sentences with nouns and verbs
To introduce one’s self in Yugtun
Understand how Yup’ik/Yupiaq values influence how Yugtun is spoken

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces learners to a language that is not widely taught

Provides opportunities to learn and practice cultural traditions

Centres around learners exploring how a language influences a culture

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Yup'ik Language and Culture with these activities:

Strengthen grasp of basic Yup’ik grammar concepts

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Strengthening your understanding of fundamental grammar principles makes it easier to build upon later lessons in the course.

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Review the pronunciation of Yugtun sounds and alphabet
Practice constructing simple sentences and phrases
Complete basic grammar exercises

Develop a Yugtun language learning plan

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Creating a structured plan will help you stay motivated, track your progress, and make the most of your learning journey.

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Set specific and achievable language learning goals
Identify your strengths and areas for improvement
Choose learning materials and resources that align with your goals
Create a schedule for regular practice and study
Include opportunities for self-assessment and reflection

Expand vocabulary through immersion

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Immersing yourself in Yugtun-rich environments helps you acquire new words and improve your fluency.

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Read Yugtun-language news articles or stories
Watch Yugtun movies or TV shows
Listen to Yugtun music and try to understand the lyrics
Use language learning apps or websites that provide immersion experiences

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Enhance understanding of Yup’ik cultural practices

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Gaining a deeper insight into the cultural context of Yugtun improves your comprehension and appreciation of the language.

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Watch documentaries or videos on Yup’ik traditions and history
Read articles or books about Yup’ik beliefs and values
Attend online webinars or lectures on Yup’ik cultural practices

Read a book on Yup’ik history and culture

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Delving into the history and culture of the Yup’ik people provides a deeper understanding of the language and its significance.

View Wise Words of the Yup'ik People on Amazon

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Read the book and take notes on key historical events and cultural practices
Identify sections of the book that relate to the language and its use in Yup’ik society

Improve listening comprehension skills

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Regular listening practice helps you get accustomed to the unique sounds and intonation patterns of Yugtun, making conversations easier to follow.

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Listen to Yugtun audio recordings, such as podcasts or storytelling
Watch Yugtun videos with or without subtitles
Participate in online language exchange programs or find a language partner

Engage in peer-led discussion groups

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Discussing and practicing Yugtun with peers provides opportunities to reinforce your learning and gain different perspectives.

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Join online forums or discussion groups dedicated to Yugtun learning
Organize study sessions with classmates or fellow language learners
Find a language exchange partner and practice speaking Yugtun regularly

Create Yugtun language materials for self-reference

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Creating your own language materials allows you to focus on areas you need to improve, making your learning more efficient.

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Compile a personal Yugtun dictionary or phrasebook
Create flashcards or online quizzes to practice vocabulary and grammar
Write short stories or dialogues in Yugtun
Record yourself speaking Yugtun and review your pronunciation

Career center

Learners who complete Yup'ik Language and Culture will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Archivist

Archivists acquire, preserve, and provide access to historical records and artifacts. They work in a variety of settings, including libraries, museums, and government agencies. This course may be useful for Archivists who work with Alaska Native materials, particularly Yup'ik materials.

See salaries and explore the career path for Archivist

Linguist

Linguists study the structure and use of language. They work in a variety of settings, including academia, government, and non-profit organizations. This course may help build a foundation for Linguists who want to study Yup'ik language.

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Cultural Anthropologist

Cultural Anthropologists study the cultural practices and beliefs of different societies. They work in a variety of settings, including academia, government, and non-profit organizations. This course may be useful for Cultural Anthropologists who study Alaska Native cultures, particularly Yup'ik culture.

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Language Teacher

Language Teachers teach students how to speak, read, and write a foreign language. They work in a variety of settings, including public and private schools, as well as colleges and universities. This course may help build a foundation for Language Teachers who want to teach Yup'ik language.

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Interpreter

Interpreters facilitate communication between people who speak different languages. They work in a variety of settings, including healthcare, education, and business. This course may help build a foundation for Interpreters who want to work with Yup'ik speakers.

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Translator

Translators convert written text from one language to another. They work in a variety of settings, including publishing, government, and business. This course may help build a foundation for Translators who want to work with Yup'ik texts.

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Educator

Educators plan, implement, and evaluate learning experiences for students. They work in a variety of settings, including public and private schools, as well as colleges and universities. This course may be useful for Educators who teach Alaska Native students or who want to learn more about Yup'ik culture and language.

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Journalist

Journalists write, edit, and publish news stories. They work for a variety of media outlets, including newspapers, magazines, websites, and television and radio stations. This course may be useful for Journalists who cover Alaska Native issues or who want to learn more about Yup'ik culture and language.

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Anthropologist

Anthropologists study human beings and their cultures. They work in a variety of settings, including academia, government, and non-profit organizations. This course may be useful for Anthropologists who study Alaska Native cultures, particularly Yup'ik culture.

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Historian

Historians study the past. They research, analyze, and interpret historical events and trends. This course may be useful for Historians who study Alaska Native history, particularly Yup'ik history.

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Lawyer

Lawyers provide legal advice and representation to individuals and organizations. They work in a variety of settings, including private practice, government, and non-profit organizations. This course may be useful for Lawyers who work with Alaska Native clients or who want to learn more about Yup'ik culture and language.

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Librarian

Librarians help people find and access information. They work in a variety of settings, including public libraries, school libraries, and academic libraries. This course may be useful for Librarians who work with Alaska Native communities or who want to learn more about Yup'ik culture and language.

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Social Worker

Social Workers help people cope with personal and social problems. They work with individuals, families, and groups to provide counseling, support, and resources. This course may be useful for Social Workers who work with Alaska Native communities or who want to learn more about Yup'ik culture and language.

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Museum Educator

Museum Educators develop and implement educational programs and activities for museum visitors of all ages. They lead tours, give presentations, and create exhibits. This course may be useful for Museum Educators who work in museums focused on Alaska Native cultures, particularly Yup'ik culture.

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Teacher Assistant

A Teacher Assistant provides support to teachers and students in various educational settings, including public and private schools, as well as colleges and universities. They help teachers with instructional tasks and provide students with extra assistance. This course may be useful for Teacher Assistants who work specifically with Yup'ik students or educators who want to learn more about the language and culture.

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Yup'ik Language and Culture

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