Sound Basics for English Speakers
There are multiple orthographies (spelling systems) that are used to spell words in hul̓q̓umín̓um̓. The one used at NLPS is a phonetic system and once learned, is easy to read as there is a direct correlation between sound and symbol. For those who speak English, many of the sounds and letters are similar, however there are some differences that can be confusing to an English speaker upon first introduction.
Vowels:
There are only 5 vowel sounds in hul̓q̓umín̓um̓. Click on the yellow letter tiles to listen to each vowel sound.
Click on the stars and the word cards for additional Information.
Consonants:
Most of the consonant sounds in hu̓lq̓umín̓um̓ are spelled with the same letters as in English with a few exceptions. Click on the purple letter tiles to hear them.
Click on the stars and the word cards for additional information.
Advanced hul̓q̓umín̓um̓ phonics
For those wishing a more in-depth study of hul̓q̓umín̓um̓ phonics, please refer to the resource hul̓q̓umín̓um̓ phonics home study. The Following is an excerpt from the introduction:
This book offers a collection of words that illustrate the sounds of Hul̓q̓umín̓um̓. It is intended to help teach pronunciation to beginners by explaining the phonetic value of the letters used in writing Hul̓q̓umín̓um̓. This book covers not only listening and pronunciation but also reading and writing.
One way to learn the Hul̓q̓umín̓um̓ language is to speak with the Elders and ask them for the names of plants, animals, and other things. The answers they give you and the stories they tell you, though difficult to understand at first, are a rewarding way to learn. You will find that many words in Hul̓q̓umín̓um̓ do not translate well into English. When you begin to understand these words and learn how to use them, a new world of feeling and thinking will open to you.
A second way to learn a language is by reading and writing it. A well-defined writing system or orthography is of great use in writing down the words and terms you collect. Attention to detail and mastery of the writing system are very important.
Below is the PDF of the book containing text only. To access the accompanying sound files please use the resource link above.
