THE BANNOCK LANGUAGE
The Bannock language, which is a unique dialect of Northern Paiute, is highly endangered and we need your help to preserve this language. Currently, there are only about 22 speakers living on the Fort Hall Reservation most of who are over the age of seventy. To adequately document the nuiances of the language we are seeking donations to purchase adequate audio/video recording equipment and pay Bannock speaking consultants.
Currently, we have been using a home grade Sony Handycam. Unfortunately, this camera only records in digital format which means recordings are less stable. Documentation of endangered languages using analog media (mini cassettes) and digital means is better for archival purposes. The Handycam also does not have a external microphone which is highly important for getting good audio recordings. As a result, audio recordings are not to great. Video is also preferred because you can capture lip movements of speakers and body language. For example, lip movement help us to identify when certain sounds are voiced or voiceless. Body language can be very important as well. For example, Bannock has many different ways of saying how to carry something. Something can be carried on the back, by the handles, by hand, by arms, etc. As such, there is no single word for "carry".