Day One Afternoon Session 3B & 4B: Location

Workshop Title:
Re-styling the Alphabet with Chants and Songs

Sarah Michel

Sarah is a former Chief Atahm School student who now works as Language Specialist in the language nest and as a curriculum developer. Her strong language background and enthusiasm brings much needed language support into the nest. She is currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Secwépemc Language Fluency Program through UBCO.

Kathryn Michel

Dr. Kathryn Michel has worked extensively in the area of community language revitalization and Indigenous language immersion education. She is one of the founding parents of Chief Atahm School, a Secwépemc language immersion program in 1991 on the Adams Lake Reserve near Chase, BC. Dr. Michel holds a Doctorate in Education from UBC and a Master of Arts in Education degree from SFU. She has written, edited and published numerous language curriculum resources for use in Secwepemc immersion classrooms. In 2013, she developed the “First Nations Language Essentials” curriculum guides for use in language programs in First Nations Schools across BC. Currently she is lead instructor for R Stselxméms r Secwépemc Institute language programs through NVIT and UBCO.

About the Workshop:

This interactive workshop introduces an innovative language alphabet that incorporates chants, songs and activities. Participants will explore how songs and chants can improve pronunciation and support early literacy development in language learners.

Through hands-on participation, attendees will experience a range of original alphabet songs and rhythmic chants designed to move beyond rote memorization. Participants will:

  • Learn innovative alphabet songs and chants adaptable to different languages
  • Tips on creating their own chants tailored to their teaching context