Summary: | The purpose of this research project was to develop, trial, and improve a method for
assessing levels of First Nations language proficiency. The work is based on a need
identified by British Columbia First Nations language teachers for a means to determine
student progress and achievement in courses involving the learning of First Nations
language.
Borrowing liberally from existing language rating scales, assessment literature, First
Nations language literature, personal experience in First Nations language curriculum
development, and discussions with First Nations language teachers, a set of First Nations
Language Benchmarks and check-lists were developed for trial. The research undertaken
in this study, which involved extensive collaboration with 10 First Nations language
teachers, was conducted in four First Nations languages (Interior Salish) and included
participation by both public and Band-operated schools.
Following two, three-month trial periods and the resulting feedback from the
participating language teachers, a culturally appropriate, easily administered, and teacher
friendly method of assessing First Nations language has been established. One of the
most significant outcomes of this research project is a handbook entitled A Language
Teacher's Guide to Assessing First Nations Language Proficiency. === Education, Faculty of === Educational Studies (EDST), Department of === Graduate
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