Iñupiaq Language and Culture

Paġlagivsi! Learn the basics of an Alaska Native language from America's Arctic University. This course is an introduction to the Iñupiaq language and Iñupiat culture. This introductory course will guide learners through the basics of the Iñupiaq language spoken throughout Northern Alaska by the Iñupiat people.

This AlaskaX course begins with some fundamental aspects of the language in context with Iñupiat cultural context and place. You will learn Iñupiaq pronunciation, sentence structure, grammar, vocabulary and some contextual communications, such as introductions and how to ask questions. Each module also will introduce you to an aspect of Iñupiat culture. You will watch animated stories told in Iñupiaq and learn about cultural values that influence language use.

Iñupiaq is a member of the Inuit-Yupik-Unangan language family found across the circumpolar Arctic. Iñupiaq is one of the 21 recognized official languages of the State of Alaska and one of the most widely spoken Alaska Native languages. The Iñupiaq language is comprised of two large dialect groups, Northern Iñupiaq and Seward Peninsula Inupiaq. This course focuses on the Northern Iñupiaq dialects.

Enroll in this course today and help celebrate, revitalize and sustain the Iñupiat language and culture!

Week 1: Introduction to Iñupiaq

Introduction to the language, including the basic structure, pronunciation and how to introduce yourself in Iñupiaq.

• History and Dialects
• The Sounds and Alphabet
• Greetings and Useful Phrases
• Introducing Yourself
• Storytime

Week 2: Word Characteristics and Basic Grammar of Iñupiaq

Introduction to word characteristics such as verb stems and endings and an introduction to place.

• Word Characteristics
• Putting the Puzzle Together: Verbs
• Adding More: Postbases
• The Importance of Place
• Storytime

Week 3: Iñupiaq Vocabulary

Adding and expanding Iñupiaq vocabulary words and sentences within the context of everyday life.

• People and Kinship
• Going to School
• In the Kitchen
• Surroundings
• Animals and Birds
• Storytime

Week 4: Conversations in Iñupiaq

Focus on speaking Iñupiaq in specific contexts.

• Asking Questions
• Making Requests/Commands
• Introducing Others
• Going Out for Coffee
• Meeting New Friends
• Storytime