February 2024 - Language Subscription

ISSUE NO.1• FEBRUARY

2024

LA CASA LENGUAS

CONTENTS TUVALUAN LANGUAGE & CULTURE 3

COUNTRY FACT FILE: TUVALU

5

TUVALUAN LANGUAGE GUIDE: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

8

BASIC VOCABULARY FLASHCARDS

28

BASIC TUVALUAN WORKSHEET: BASIC GREETINGS & PHRASES

30

BASIC TUVALUAN WORKSHEET: NUMBERS 1-10

32

BASIC TUVALUAN WORKSHEET: USEFUL VOCABULARY

34

TUVALUAN: MY LANGUAGE LEARNING GOALS

36

THE GOAL TRACKER

37

TUVALU CULTURAL HANDBOOK

39

MINI COOKBOOK: THE BEST TUVALUAN RECIPES

43

CHARITY OF THE MONTH: FRIENDS OF THE EARTH

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Tuvalu

FACT FILE

Tuvalu is a small, low-lying island nation in the Pacific Ocean known for its vulnerability to climate change and its unique culture and traditions.

tuvalu Location: Tuvalu is a small island country located in the Pacific Ocean. It is situated in Oceania, halfway between Australia and Hawaii. The country is part of the Polynesian region.

Geography: Tuvalu is made up of nine coral atolls and reef islands, with a total land area of about 26 square kilometers (10 square miles).

The islands are low-lying, with the highest point being only 4.6 meters (15 feet) above sea level.

Population: As of 2021, Tuvalu has an estimated population of around 11,931 people.

Funafuti is the capital and largest city of the country. Tuvaluans are primarily of Polynesian descent, with most people speaking Tuvaluan and English.

Government: Tuvalu is a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy, with Queen Elizabeth II as the ceremonial head of state. The country gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1978. The Prime Minister is the head of government.

History

sport

The history of Tuvalu can be traced back to the Polynesian people who first arrived on the islands around 2000 BC. The islands were later colonized by European powers, including Germany, Great Britain, and Japan, before becoming an independent nation in 1978.

Sport in Tuvalu is an important part of the national identity and culture, with traditional island games such as te ano and kilikiti being widely played. The Tuvalu national football team also competes in international competitions, showcasing the passion and talent of Tuvalu athletes.

culture

Tourism

Tuvaluan culture is deeply rooted in Polynesian traditions and practices.

Music, dance, and storytelling play a significant role in cultural expression.

Traditional crafts, such as weaving, fala-making (mats), and carving, are still practiced. The traditional sport of te ano is popular among locals.

Tourism is a growing sector in Tuvalu, attracting visitors who are drawn to its untouched natural beauty, pristine beaches, and unique culture. The country offers opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and exploring its vibrant marine life. However, due to its remote location and limited infrastructure, tourism is still relatively underdeveloped.

Did you know? Tuvalu is the fourth smallest country in the world by land area, just above Monaco, Nauru, and San Marino.

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Basic Language Guide

TUVALUAN LANGUAGE GUIDE: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE Tuvalu is a small island country in the Pacific Ocean, known for its unique culture, friendly people, and breathtaking landscapes. The Tuvaluan language is crucial in understanding and appreciating the rich heritage of the Tuvaluan people.

Importance Language

of

Tuvaluan

The Tuvaluan language plays a vital role in preserving Tuvalu's cultural identity. It is a source of pride for the Tuvaluan people and a key element in maintaining their traditions and passing them down through generations.

Greetings and Expressions

Polite

Hello - Talofa Good morning - Malolo Good evening - Aoao How are you? - Fefe hola?

Thank you - Fakafetai Please - Fakamolemole Excuse me - Toluga Common Daily Expressions 1. What is your name? - Ko fai tou igoa?

2. My name is... - Ko toku igoa ko...

3. Yes - Io 4. No - Teitoka 5. I don't understand - Aue, te malamalama Numbers and Counting One - Tasi Two - Lua Three - Tolu Four - Fa Five - Lima

Six - Ono Seven - Fitu Eight - Valu Nine - Hiva Ten - Sefulu Asking for Directions Where is...? - I hea...?

Left - Mulimuli Right - Kite Straight ahead - Lotoa

Pronunciation Guide Vowels and Consonants The Tuvaluan language has a straightforward pronunciation.

Vowels are pronounced as follows: A: ah, as in "father" E: eh, as in "pen" I: ee, as in "see" O: oh, as in "go" U: oo, as in "blue" Consonants are generally pronounced as in English.

Accent and Stress Rules The stress in Tuvaluan words typically falls on the second-to-last syllable.

Common Pronunciation Pitfalls Pay attention to vowel lengths; they can change the meaning of a word.

Practice nasalizing vowels when required.

Grammar Basics Sentence Structure Tuvaluan follows a subject-verbobject (SVO) sentence structure.

Noun and Verb Usage Nouns usually come before verbs in Tuvaluan sentences.

Possession and Ownership Use "na" to indicate possession, e.g., "Ko toku fale na" (My house).

Tense and Aspect Tuvaluan has a straightforward tense system, including past, present, and future tenses.

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Society & Culture

Useful Vocabulary

Cultural Insights

Essential Words and Phrases

Cultural Importance of Language

Water - Vai Sun - La Moon - Mahina Star - Fetu Ocean - Moana

The Tuvaluan language is deeply connected to Tuvaluan culture, representing the history, values, and traditions of the people.

Colors, Shapes, and Sizes Red - Mea Blue - Kikila Square - Sikale Big - Tele Small - Lālā Family and Relationships Mother - Tinā Father - Tamā Brother - Tamaiki Sister - Tamaliki Friend - Alofa Food and Drinks Food - Mea'ai Fish - Ika Coconut - Niu Banana - Fai

Customs and Traditions Language is integral in traditional ceremonies, dances, and storytelling, allowing Tuvaluans to preserve their customs.

Etiquette in Communication Respect for elders is paramount.

Use polite expressions and formal language when appropriate.

Role of Language in Storytelling Tuvaluan storytelling is an essential part of the culture. Language is used to pass down myths, legends, and historical narratives.

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Society & Culture

BASIC TUVALUAN WORKSHEET: BASIC GREETINGS & PHRASES 1. Translate the following English greetings into Tuvulan: a. Hello b. Good morning c. Good evening d. How are you? e. Thank you f. Please g. Excuse me 2. Common Daily Expressions - Translate into Tuvulan: a. What is your name? b. My name is... c. Yes d. No e. I don't understand 3. Answer the following questions in English: a. What is the Tuvulan word for "Hello"? b. How do you say "Good evening" in Tuvulan? c. What is the Tuvulan expression for "How are you?" d. Translate "Thank you" into Tuvulan e. How do you say "Excuse me" in Tuvulan?

4. Fill in the blanks with the appropriate Tuvulan words: a. __________ is used to greet someone in Tuvulan. b. __________ is the Tuvulan word for "Good morning." c. "Fefe hola" translates to ___________ in English. d. "Ko fai tou igoa?" means ____________. e. To say "Yes" in Tuvulan, you say __________.

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Society & Culture

BASIC TUVALUAN WORKSHEET: BASIC GREETINGS & PHRASES Answers: 1. Translations: a. Talofa b. Malolo c. Aoao d. Fefe hola? e. Fakafetai f. Fakamolemole g. Toluga 2. Common Daily Expressions: a. Ko fai tou igoa? b. Ko toku igoa ko... c. Io d. Teitoka e. Aue, te malamalama 3. English Questions: a. Talofa b. Aoao c. Fefe hola? d. Fakafetai e. Toluga 4. Fill in the Blanks: a. Talofa b. Malolo c. How are you? d. What is your name? e. Io

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Society & Culture

BASIC TUVALUAN WORKSHEET: NUMBERS 1-10 1. Write the Tuvulan equivalent for the following numbers in English: a. 1 b. 2 c. 3 d. 4 e. 5 f. 6 g. 7 h. 8 i. 9 j. 10 2. Translate the Tuvulan numbers into English: a. Tasi b. Lua c. Tolu d. Fa e. Lima f. Ono g. Fitu h. Valu i. Iva j. Ongo 3. Answer the following questions in English: a. What is the Tuvulan word for "5"? b. How do you say "2" in Tuvulan? c. Translate "8" into Tuvulan. d. What is the Tuvulan number for "3"? e. How do you write "10" in Tuvulan?

4. True or False: a. "Ongo" is the Tuvulan word for "4". b. "Lima" means "6" in Tuvulan. c. "Valu" is the Tuvulan number for "9". d. "Tasi" translates to "10" in English. e. The Tuvulan word for "2" is "Fitu".

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Society & Culture

BASIC TUVALUAN WORKSHEET: NUMBERS 1-10 1. English Numbers: a. 1 - Tasi b. 2 - Lua c. 3 - Tolu d. 4 - Fa e. 5 - Lima f. 6 - Ono g. 7 - Fitu h. 8 - Valu i. 9 - Iva j. 10 - Ongo 2. Tuvulan Numbers: a. 1 - Tasi b. 2 - Lua c. 3 - Tolu d. 4 - Fa e. 5 - Lima f. 6 - Ono g. 7 - Fitu h. 8 - Valu i. 9 - Iva j. 10 - Ongo 3. English Questions: a. Lima b. Lua c. Valu d. Tolu e. Ongo 4. True or False: a. False b. False c. False d. False e. False

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Society & Culture

BASIC TUVALUAN WORKSHEET: USEFUL VOCABULARY 1. Translate the following English words into Tuvulan: a. Water b. Sun c. Moon d. Star e. Ocean 2. Translate the Tuvulan words into English: a. Vai b. La c. Mahina d. Fetu e. Moana 3. Answer the following questions in English: a. What is the Tuvulan word for "Sun"? b. Translate "Moana" into English. c. What does "Mahina" mean in English? d. How do you say "Star" in Tuvulan? e. What is the Tuvulan word for "Water"?

4. True or False: a. "Niu" is the Tuvulan word for "Coconut". b. "Kikila" means "Red" in Tuvulan. c. "Tamaliki" is the Tuvulan word for "Brother". d. "Alofa" translates to "Mother" in Tuvulan. e. "Ika" means "Sun" in Tuvulan.

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Society & Culture

BASIC TUVALUAN WORKSHEET: USEFUL VOCABULARY Answers: 1. English to Tuvulan: a. Vai b. La c. Mahina d. Fetu e. Moana 2. Tuvulan to English: a. Water b. Sun c. Moon d. Star e. Ocean 3. English Questions: a. La b. Ocean c. Moon d. Fetu e. Vai 4. True or False: a. True b. True c. False d. False e. False

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TUVALUAN: MY LANGUAGE LEARNING GOALS GREETINGS AND INTRODUCTIONS

DAILY PHRASES

Learned basic greetings.

Learned common daily phrases.

Introduced myself in Tuvaluan.

Incorporated phrases into daily conversations.

Bonus: Recorded and shared a video introduction.

Bonus: Created and shared a short dialogue.

NUMBERS AND SHOPPING

FAMILY AND RELATIONSHIPS

Learned numbers 1-20.

Learned vocabulary for family members.

Practiced basic math in Tuvaluan.

Described my family tree in Tuvaluan.

Created a Tuvaluan shopping list.

Bonus: Shared a family photo with Tuvaluan captions.

Bonus: Role-played a shopping scenario with a partner.

WEATHER AND NATURE Learned words for weather conditions and nature.

Shared a Tuvaluan description of the current weather.

Bonus: Created a poem or haiku about nature in Tuvaluan.

TUVALUAN CUISINE Learned names of Tuvaluan dishes and ingredients.

Shared a recipe in Tuvaluan.

Bonus: Cooked a Tuvaluan dish and documented the process.

TUVALUAN: MY LANGUAGE LEARNING GOALS CULTURAL EXPRESSIONS

OVERALL PROGRESS

Explored Tuvaluan songs, dances, or stories.

Consistently practiced Tuvaluan each week.arned basic greetings.

Learned and performed a Tuvaluan song or dance.

Faced and overcame language learning challenges.

Bonus: Created a summary or retelling of a Tuvaluan traditional story video introduction.

Feel more confident in using Tuvaluan.

the goal tracker GOAL

START DATE :

MOTIVATION

PROJECTED DUE DATE : ACTION PLAN

DATE :

DURATION : ACTION STEPS

ROADBLOCKS

PROGRESS BAR :

DATE COMPLETED : GOAL

START DATE :

MOTIVATION

PROJECTED DUE DATE : ACTION PLAN

DATE :

DURATION : ACTION STEPS

ROADBLOCKS

PROGRESS BAR :

DATE COMPLETED :

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Tuvalu Cultural Handbook Insights into Tuvaluan traditions, customs, and daily life Traditional Housing (Fale): Tuvaluans traditionally live in thatched-roof huts called "fales." These structures are designed to allow natural ventilation and withstand the tropical climate.

Communal Living: The sense of community is strong, and many families live in close proximity. Sharing resources and supporting one another is a fundamental aspect of Tuvaluan life.

Coconut and Seafood: Coconut and seafood play a significant role in Tuvaluan cuisine. Fish, coconut, taro, and breadfruit are staple foods.

Traditional Cooking (Pulaka): Pulaka is a traditional method of cooking using an underground pit oven. Food, wrapped in banana leaves, is placed in the pit with hot stones.

Fatele: Fatele is a traditional Tuvaluan dance accompanied by singing. It often tells stories of historical events or daily life.

Traditional instruments like the fala (coconut leaf) are used.

Drumming: Drumming is an integral part of Tuvaluan music.

Drums are crafted from hollowed logs and produce rhythmic beats during ceremonies and celebrations.

Teunga: Traditional clothing for women is called "teunga," which is a finely woven mat. It is worn as a skirt during important ceremonies and events.

Teuga: Men wear a wrapped mat called "teuga" around their waist during traditional occasions. Casual wear today is influenced by Western fashion.

Tuvalu Day: Celebrated on October 1st, Tuvalu Day commemorates the nation's independence from British rule in 1978. Festivities include cultural performances, traditional sports, and feasting.

Independence Day: This is a national holiday celebrated on October 1st, marking Tuvalu's independence. The capital, Funafuti, comes alive with parades, dances, and cultural displays.

SALFORD & CO.

Tuvalu Cultural Handbook Insights into Tuvaluan traditions, customs, and daily life Traditional Navigation: Tuvaluans have a history of skilled navigation using natural signs like the stars, currents, and the flight patterns of migratory birds.

Environmental Challenges: As a low-lying island nation, Tuvalu faces challenges due to rising sea levels. Environmental awareness and sustainability are crucial aspects of Tuvaluan culture.

Christianity: The majority of Tuvaluans are Christians, with the Church of Tuvalu (Ekalesia Kelisiano Tuvalu) being the predominant denomination.

Importance of Elders: Tuvaluans place a high value on respecting elders. Their wisdom and guidance are crucial in decision-making within the community.

Handicrafts: Tuvaluans are skilled in traditional crafts like weaving, creating mats, baskets, and other items from natural materials.

Pulaka and Coconut Milk Soup (Supu Pulaka) 2 servings

15 minutes

DIRECTIONS 1. Peel and cut the pulaka into bitesized pieces.

2. In a large pot, combine pulaka,

INGREDIENTS

chopped onion, minced garlic, and enough water to cover the

1 medium-sized pulaka (swamp taro) 2 cups coconut milk 1 onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced Salt to taste Water

ingredients.

3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the pulaka is tender.

4. Add coconut milk and salt to taste.

Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.

5. Serve the Pulaka and Coconut Milk Soup hot.

Image Credit: Culinary Cam

Te Bua Toro (Grilled Fish) 2 servings

15 minutes

DIRECTIONS 1. Season the fish fillets with salt, pepper, and lime juice. Allow them to marinate for 30 minutes.

INGREDIENTS

2. Place each fillet on a piece of banana leaf and pour coconut cream over

4 fish fillets (mahimahi or tuna) 1 cup coconut cream 2 limes, juiced Salt and pepper to taste Banana leaves for grilling

the fish.

3. Wrap the banana leaves around the fillets to create parcels.

4. Grill the parcels over an open flame or on a barbecue for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the fish is cooked through.

5. Serve Te Bua Toro hot with additional lime wedges.

Image Credit: Nadia Lim

Ika Mata (Raw Fish Salad) 2 servings

15 minutes

DIRECTIONS 1. In a bowl, combine diced fish, cucumber, tomato, and onion.

2. Add coconut milk and lime juice to

INGREDIENTS

taste. Mix well.

3. Season with salt and pepper.

1 lb fresh fish fillets (mahi-mahi or tuna), diced 1 cucumber, finely chopped 1 tomato, diced 1 onion, finely chopped Coconut milk Lime juice Salt and pepper to taste

4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

5. Serve Ika Mata chilled.

Image Credit: Remitly

Palusami 2 servings

15 minutes

DIRECTIONS 1. In a large bowl, mix the taro leaves, grated coconut, chopped onion, and salt.

INGREDIENTS

2. Cut banana leaves into 10x10 inch squares and briefly pass them over

4 cups taro leaves, cleaned and chopped 2 cups coconut cream 1 onion, finely chopped

an open flame to soften.

3. Place a portion of the taro mixture in the center of each banana leaf square and fold the leaves to form parcels.

4. Secure the parcels with toothpicks or string.

5. Steam the parcels for about 30-40

2 cups grated

minutes or until the taro leaves are

coconut

tender.

Salt to taste Banana leaves for wrapping

6. Serve Palusami hot.

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Charity of the Month

CHARITY OF THE MONTH: FRIENDS OF THE EARTH Friends of the Earth (FoE), an international environmental organization, has been at the forefront of the battle for environmental conservation and sustainable practices globally. While their work spans various regions, the case of Tuvalu, a small island nation in the Pacific, underscores the critical importance of environmental stewardship.

Friends of the Earth's Mission: Friends of the Earth operates with a mission to champion environmental justice and sustainability. With a commitment to protecting the planet, FoE engages in campaigns and initiatives aimed at addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and other environmental challenges. Their work extends to advocating for policies that prioritize the well-being of both people and the planet.

The Threat to Tuvalu: Tuvalu, comprised of nine low-lying atolls, faces imminent threats due to climate change. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and changing weather patterns pose a severe risk to Tuvalu's existence.

The vulnerability of this island nation highlights the urgency of global efforts to mitigate climate change and protect the environment.

Friends of the Earth and Tuvalu: Friends of the Earth is actively engaged in advocating for policies that address the root causes of climate change and promote resilience in vulnerable regions like

Tuvalu.

The organization collaborates with local communities, governments, and other stakeholders to implement sustainable practices and raise awareness about the environmental challenges faced by Tuvalu.

FoE's initiatives include: 1. Climate Advocacy: Friends of the Earth works to raise awareness about the impact of climate change and advocates for international policies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

2. Community Empowerment: FoE collaborates with local communities to build resilience and adaptive capacity. This involves supporting sustainable livelihoods and environmental conservation practices.

3. Legal Actions: Friends of the Earth utilizes legal avenues to hold corporations and governments accountable for environmental harm.

This includes actions to address pollution and ensure responsible resource management.

Why Environmental Matters for Tuvalu:

Protection

1. Rising Sea Levels: Tuvalu faces the direct threat of rising sea levels, which could lead to the submersion of low-lying atolls.

Protecting the environment is crucial for mitigating the impacts of climate change and preserving Tuvalu's land and culture.

2. Biodiversity Conservation: The unique ecosystems of Tuvalu contribute to its biodiversity.

Environmental conservation efforts by Friends of the Earth help maintain these ecosystems and support the diverse marine and terrestrial life in the region.

3. Sustainable Livelihoods: The well-being of Tuvalu's population relies heavily on a healthy environment.

Sustainable practices advocated

by FoE ensure that communities can continue to thrive without depleting essential resources.