Language

4 Level Languages

Understanding Language Renewal and Fluency:

Four possible levels of language renewal:
1. Level 1 or Ritual
2. Level 2 or Ceremonial
3. Level 3 or Vernacular
4. Level 4 or Functional

1. Level 1 or Ritual Language
	Most limited level of language retention.
	Memorization and use of a few hundred words and songs.
	Very limited use of the language that will result in the near extinction of the Ktunaxa language.
	School-based programs of 60 - 100 minutes per week is only capable of achieving this low level of language retention.
	Higher levels of language use would not likely result, even if a school-based program were improved with additional material and teacher training.

2. Level 2 or Ceremonial Language:
	Includes speaking in longer stretches than just inserting a few words.
	Speaking in sentences and longer stretches of speech. (E.g. short greetings, small talk about the weather or a little teasing before switching to English).
	Could include speaking a rehearsed speech.
	Speaker uses Ktunaxa more extensively than for ritual use, but this is always rehearsed, not spontaneous, and involves the repetition of memorized passages.
	When spoken to, speakers at this level would only understand a limited range of topics.
	This Ceremonial language level can be attained through an extended school-based program, such as doubling the current instructional time, or through a limited immersion program where Ktunaxa is used for up to half the time for 3 or 4 years.

3. Level 3 or Vernacular Language:
	Use of Ktunaxa for sustained conversation (e.g. two speakers could have a conversation about almost any topic of daily life and generally be able to have social visits all in Ktunaxa)
	Vernacular language users are fluent, and can speak with one another without hesitation. Speakers at this level of fluency would understand conversation about most topics.
	The Ktunaxa that would be spoken would be extensive but it would involve the simplification of language forms and, although spoken freely, it would not be the quality of language now spoken by elders.
	Vernacular language proficiency is only possible through sustained immersion in the language, that is, using the language in a Ktunaxa only environment for several hours a day over 5 to 9 years.
	This language interaction is mostly with other learners who have a level of fluency like them and their language may include some errors in usage or pronunciation.

4. Level 4 or Functional language:
	This is language renewal.
	This is a community of speakers who freely and frequently speak Ktunaxa in a wide array of situations and about almost any topic.
	The language is used accurately and pronunciation is not marked by any English accent.
	Individuals who achieve Functional Language use will contribute to the vernacular fluency by providing the one on one language interaction with a highly fluent elder.
	To achieve functional proficiency the language would need to be used not only in an immersion situation with other learners, but also to speak with fluent elders in an immersion situation, over extended period of time.

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4 Level Languages