Gigi’ihl Algyax ehl Angooga’m: Seeking spoken language, from our Ancestors
| dc.contributor.author | Starlund, Jessica (Sinensxw) | |
| dc.date.accessioned | 2025-11-17T21:54:24Z | |
| dc.date.available | 2025-11-17T21:54:24Z | |
| dc.date.issued | 2025 | |
| dc.description.abstract | This research explores the application of Total Physical Response (TPR) as a method for teaching Sim Algyax (Gitxsan language) within a school context that emphasizes both language revitalization and land-based learning. Using autoethnography as the primary methodology, I documented my personal journey as a Gitxsan language learner and educator through reflective journaling. These journal entries served as the foundation for analyzing key themes related to language acquisition, comprehension, learner engagement, and the challenges and successes encountered throughout the process. Central to this inquiry is the concept of Gigi’ihl Algyax ehl Angooga’m—Seeking the spoken language from our Ancestors—which emerged as a guiding principle during the research. I highlight the ways in which curriculum design was adapted to include culturally relevant stories and experiential learning rooted in the lax yip (territory), aligning with Gitxsan ways of knowing. As a Gitxsan educator and daughter of parents who attended Indian Residential School, Day Schools, and Boarding Schools, my work is deeply informed by intergenerational resilience and a commitment to creating safe, supportive learning environments for Indigenous language learners. This research affirms the Gitxsan Ayook of Gwiihl Yee’insxw—the responsibility to pass on knowledge to future generations—and offers insights for educators engaged in Indigenous Language Revitalization. Through storytelling and self-inquiry, this project contributes to broader conversations about decolonizing education and sustaining Indigenous languages within a school setting. | |
| dc.description.scholarlevel | Graduate | |
| dc.identifier.uri | https://hdl.handle.net/1828/22919 | |
| dc.language.iso | en | |
| dc.rights | Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International | en |
| dc.rights.uri | http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ | |
| dc.subject | Total Physical Response (TPR) | |
| dc.subject | school context | |
| dc.subject | language revitalization | |
| dc.subject | land-based learning | |
| dc.subject | autoethnography | |
| dc.subject | Gitxsan language learner | |
| dc.subject.department | Department of Indigenous Education | |
| dc.title | Gigi’ihl Algyax ehl Angooga’m: Seeking spoken language, from our Ancestors | |
| dc.type | Other |