Aleut Syntax and Discourse

University Of Alaska Fairbanks Campus, Fairbanks AK

Investigators

Abstract

The proposed research by Dr. Anna Berge of the University of Alaska Fairbanks is to undertake initial descriptive linguistic research on the contemporary Aleut language. Aleut is the severely endangered language spoken on the Aleutian Islands, Alaska and Russia. Previous recorded descriptions of the Aleut language have been of classical Aleut, before substantial changes occurred through contact with non-Natives. Such texts are too difficult to be useful to contemporary speakers or for the planned language revitalization projects occurring in Aleut communities. The proposed project is the beginning of a long-term language documentation, revitalization, and education program envisioned by the researcher and the communities with which she works.