Level 1: Basic Cree
Course Description
010-024-EE:
Level 1: Basic Cree
This introductory course provides learners with a foundation in Cree speaking and listening skills. Participants will learn common greetings, introductions, everyday vocabulary, and simple conversational expressions while exploring Cree cultural values and communication practices. Through interactive activities and guided practice, learners will build confidence using Cree in everyday situations.
Course Details
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Duration
30 hours -
Delivery Method
Virtual -
Fees
$695
Free for Cree Beneficiaries.
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Upcoming Sessions
September 9, to Dec 16, 2026, 6-8pm
Topics Covered
- Cree greetings and introductions
- Personal information and self-identification
- Family and kinship vocabulary
- Numbers, dates, and time expressions
- Common everyday vocabulary and phrases
- Basic conversational patterns
- Listening and speaking practice
- Pronunciation and oral fluency development
- Asking and answering simple questions
- Community and workplace communication
- Respectful communication and cultural protocols
- Interactive dialogues and role-playing activities
- Review and reinforcement through repetition and practice
Course Benefits
At the end of this course the participants will be able to:
- Greet others and introduce themselves using basic Cree expressions.
- Understand and respond to simple spoken Cree in familiar everyday situations. Use common vocabulary related to family, community, daily activities, and personal information.
- Participate in short conversations using simple sentences and expressions. Demonstrate basic listening comprehension by identifying key words and phrases in spoken Cree.
- Apply foundational Cree pronunciation skills with increased accuracy and confidence.
- Recognize and demonstrate respect for Cree cultural values and communication practices.
- Communicate with greater confidence in personal, community, and workplace settings.
- Continue to Level 2 with a strong foundation in Cree oral language skills.
Intended Audience
This course is designed for beginners with little or no previous experience in Cree who would like to build confidence in basic communication skills. It is ideal for employees seeking to improve workplace communication, community members interested in conversational Cree, and students preparing for further language studies. The course is also well suited for individuals working in bilingual environments or public service settings who wish to strengthen their everyday speaking and listening abilities in Cree.
Meet our Instructors
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Ms. Patricia Bullfrog
Patricia Bullfrog is a fluent Cree speaker from the Cree Nation of Chisasibi . With 28 years of experience teaching Cree language and culture, she has worked with learners of all ages in community and educational settings.
Patricia specializes in conversational Cree, Cree literacy, and cultural teachings. She is committed to supporting language revitalization and helping learners build confidence in speaking and understanding Cree.
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Ms. Nellie Cox
Nellie Cox is a dedicated Cree educator and language advocate with more than 30 years of service at the Cree School Board. Throughout her career, she has played a significant role in preserving, promoting, and revitalizing the Cree language and culture through education. As a Cree Language Education Consultant, she has supported the development of Cree language programs, curriculum resources, and learning opportunities for students, educators, and communities across Eeyou Istchee. Working closely with Elders, teachers, and community members, Nellie has helped ensure that Cree language, traditional knowledge, and cultural values remain an integral part of education. Her lifelong commitment to Indigenous education and language revitalization continues to inspire learners and strengthen the transmission of Cree language and culture for future generations.