Blackfoot Language Workbooks

Niisit’powahsin Blackfoot Language Work Book New Second Edition

By Blackfoot language consultants Julius Delayney, Blaise Russell, Wilma Spearchief, and Camina Weasel Mocassin.

Niisit’powahsin Blackfoot Language was developed to preserve and revitalize the knowledge of the Blackfoot language. Blackfoot is a living language that is spoken by four distinct groups: Kainai, Siksika, Piikani, and Amskapii’Piikani. This book serves as an important educational and cultural resource, helping the Blackfoot understand their relationship within the rest of Creation, and strengthen their cultural values and knowledge. All readers will gain insights into the social dynamics of the Blackfoot people, including their values, family ties, relationships, and the environment they live in.

The book contains three main parts: Fundamentals which includes Nitsitapii Values, the alphabet, and pronunciation guide; Language Introductions; and Land-based learning.

The language flashcards offer a convenient tool to learn and practice Blackfoot words and conversational phrases.

This project was made possible by funding from the Community Services Recovery Fund grant and the Friends Society of the Sir Alexander Galt Museum & Archives.

First Edition Blackfoot Language Work Book

This Blackfoot Language Project was sponsored by the Galt Museum for participants interested in learning the basics of Blackfoot language. In addition to being able to recognize, write and articulate the Blackfoot language, the participants will also learn about the history of the Blackfoot People, land, way of life and stories. Activities are included to support the acquisition of the knowledge base embodied in the Blackfoot language.

The Blackfoot language is descriptive. 

Blackfoot language has survived. It has been passed down to us from generations of ancestors here on earth and the universe. It has alive and it has spirit; it is a living language. It is a responsibility we maintain our knowledge base, our practices and way of life as Nitsitapi People. Make connection to the living language.

Check out the content from the Blackfoot Language Workbook

Front cover illustration: Blackfoot Crossing by Jason Eaglespeaker

Funding for this program and workbook was provided by the Government of Canada.

Content provided by Julius Delaney and Terry Many Grey Horses. Illustrations provided by Jason Eaglespeaker.

Thanks to Dryden Roesch, Graham Ruttan and Hilary Squires for layout. Thanks to Janae Redgrave, Natasha Gray and Susan Burrows-Johnson for project leadership. 

Thanks also to the Friends of the Galt Museum & Archives for their support.