Root and Rut Card Game
Root and Rut is a nsyilxcn/nqilxʷcn language learning card game that is fun, fast-paced, and educational. Designed to engage players of all ages, the game incorporates actions, cultural knowledge, and language practice into a lively and interactive format. Through quick matches and energetic gestures, players connect with the language while learning vocabulary, traditional concepts, and community values in an entertaining way. Perfect for classrooms, family gatherings, or community events, Root and Rut offers an enjoyable way to revitalize and celebrate the nsyilxcn/nqilxʷcn language
sƛ̓aʔcínm Deer
Instructions
Both players bring their hands to their heads, mimicking antlers. Then, they lean slightly toward each other and gently touch their fingertips, like rutting bucks locking antlers
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The relationship between the Syilx people and the deer goes beyond mere subsistence. It reflects a deep spiritual connection to the natural world, where animals like the deer are seen not only as physical beings but as integral parts of the broader community of life. The teachings, stories, and practices associated with the deer continue to be an important aspect of Syilx culture and are passed down through generations
Resources
The Names Of Male Deer performed by Arnie Baptiste https://syilx.org/about-us/syilx-nation/songs/
Coyote and Deer in čaptíkʷł 1: N̓səlxčin Stories for Beginners by Sʕamtíca̓ (Sarah Peterson), LaRae Wiley, and Christopher Parkin (2nd Edition, version 6)
p̓inaʔ Basket
Instructions
One player forms their hands into a basket shape. The other player pretends to pick three imaginary berries, one at a time, and places them into the "basket." Both players must complete their roles for the action to be considered complete
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Resources
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sp̓iƛ̓m Bitteroot
Instructions
One player pretends to be the roots by extending their arms downward, wiggling their fingers like roots in the ground. The other player mimics holding a digging stick and makes a motion as if they are digging the roots out. Both players must finish their actions together to complete the card
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Resources
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Acknowledgements and Licensing
Contributors:
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Franchesca Raven Bell: Creator of the card game, including its concept, mechanics, illustrations, and voice clips
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Sheri Stelkia: Community Elder, who provided guidance to ensure that the specific words and cultural elements included in this resource are appropriate and align with publicly shared knowledge
Ownership:
This language learning resource and all associated materials are the intellectual property of the Osoyoos Indian Band. All rights are reserved unless otherwise noted.
Licensing:
The materials on this website are provided for educational and non-commercial use only. Redistribution, reproduction, or use of the materials in any form outside of approved contexts requires explicit permission from the Osoyoos Indian Band.
Cultural and Intellectual Property Notice:
The images, voice clips, and game elements draw upon the cultural heritage and knowledge of the Syilx people. As such, they are protected not only by copyright but also by the principles of Indigenous cultural and intellectual property rights. Please respect these materials and their intended purpose to support language learning and cultural revitalization.
Contact for Permissions:
For inquiries regarding permissions or usage of the materials, please contact the Osoyoos Indian Band Language House via (250) 498-3444, oiblang@oib.ca.
Disclaimer:
This resource is designed with input from the community and reflects cultural values and teachings. Please use it respectfully and in alignment with its purpose.
sn̓c̓aʔc̓íx̌laʔxʷ Frybread
Directions: Each player imagines a piece of frybread in front of them. Using an imaginary fork or spatula, they reach over and pretend to flip each other’s frybread. Both players must complete the flipping motion at the same time to finish the action
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y̓lmixʷm Chief
Directions: Both players extend their hands and shake each other’s hand firmly. The action is complete once both players have exchanged a handshake.
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kilx Hand
Directions: Each player raises a hand and gives the other a solid high five. The action is complete once both players' hands connect in a single, enthusiastic slap.
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