LANGUAGE

Language is central to social life and education. Presenters discuss the Somali writing system, pronunciation of Somali, language diversity among Somalis, and Somali students who need English as a second language support.

Language 1: Introduction of Written Somali

Abdulkadir Abdi talks about the impact of the introduction of written Somali in 1972

Language 2: Pronouncing the Letter “X”

Abdulkadir Abdi works with participants to recognize and pronounce the “X” sound, as in “Ahmed”.

Language 3: Identifying Limited English Proficient Students

Dr. Abdinur Mohamud explains why Somali parents may not immediately advocate for their child’s educational needs, and pitfalls of misdiagnosing students’ language and learning barriers.

Language 4: Somali Language Diversity

Dr. Lidwien Kapteijns highlights the emergence of vernacular religious poetry in a multicultural coastal community, through the poetry of a holy woman.