An Analysis of the Discourse Function of Saulteaux/mi-/ As Exemplified In A Traditional Cote First Nation Teaching Text

Date
2012-12
Authors
Cote, Lorena Lynn
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Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, University of Regina
Abstract

This thesis has a three-fold purpose. First it presents a Saulteaux narrative collected from a Saskatchewan reserve, Cote First Nation, transcribed, translated and analyzed linguistically. Saulteaux, the Plains dialect of Ojibwe, is spoken in the southern half of Saskatchewan and in Manitoba. The dialect studied in this thesis is the dialect that is spoken in the Kamsack area. Second, the thesis focuses on the use and function of the discourse particle /mi-/ in Saulteaux text structure. Following an introduction to the main thesis topic, a cross-dialectal survey of this discourse particle in Ojibwe, both its morphosyntactic form and word order, sets the background for a discussion of the form, function and occurrence of /mi-/ in the Saulteaux dialect of Cote First Nation. Third, the linguistic analysis is followed by a lesson plan and discussion of the means and importance for teaching this and other discourse particles and structures of the Saulteaux language in its basic communicative context. This is provided specifically for speakers of Saulteaux and others interested in teaching and preserving the language. This thesis will provide materials that can be utilized in teaching both children and adults the Saulteaux language along with the history, beliefs, traditions and customs of the Saulteaux people through traditional narratives.

Description
A Thesis Submitted to the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of Arts in Canadian Plains Studies, University of Regina. xii, 190 l.
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