A set of films and learning materials – designed to bring Guernesiais to life for local children, teachers, and families through play – have launched online, free for all to use.
The materials teach basic sounds, phrases and vocabulary – such as colours and numbers – through six simple games, including rock, paper, scissors and a Guernesiais version of Bulldog where players try to ‘make it to Herm’.
Let’s Play in Guernesiais! is designed for use by those with little or no prior knowledge of the language. It aims to enable teachers, parents, grandparents and friends to learn alongside the island’s children in a fun, interactive way.
Anita Wood, a senior lecturer in education at the University of Exeter, has worked with local Guernesiais teacher and translator Yan Marquis to develop its materials. They hope to instil a sense of pride back in the nearly lost local language. Its public launch follows a successful trial run at Amherst Primary School and Blanchelande College.
‘It’s been wonderful to see how quickly children pick up Guernesiais when it’s part of a game,’ said Mr Marquis.
‘The laughter and enthusiasm in the playground show that language learning is fun – we need to give it space to be used.’
The Guernsey Language Commission funded the project, which is seen as a ‘real step forward’ for the language, said its chairman, Sir Richard Collas.
‘These materials will help our youngest islanders hear, use, and value their language,’ he added.
‘An important part of Guernsey’s cultural identity.’
Anyone keen to learn, play the games or learn how to teach them to others, can attend one of two hour-long training events that the Language Commission is hosting. There is one open to the community at St Saviour’s Community Centre on 11 November at 6-7pm. And another for teachers on 12 November at St Martin’s Community Centre from 5-6pm.
To join a course and for all Let’s Play in Guernesiais resources visit here.
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