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.
School of Teaching and Learning
The Ohio State University
Email: somalistudies@ehe.osu.edu
333 Arps Hall
1945 North High Street
Columbus, Ohio 43210