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Yoruba Yarns: Exploring Stewards and Slaves in Yoruba Culture + Discovering the Wonders of Ifokore

Hey there, Lede Yoruba Learners!


This week, we are diving into Yoruba history and culture, looking at the roles of stewards and slaves, and exploring the magic of Ifokore, a cherished meal of the Ijebu people. Get ready to learn some important vocabulary and cultural insights.


Offline Learning Resources Launched on LedeYoruba


We are excited to announce the launch of new offline learning resources on the LedeYoruba website! These resources are designed to enhance your Yoruba language learning experience, providing you with a variety of tools to study at your own pace, even without an internet connection. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s now available:


  • Flashcards: Enhance your vocabulary with themed flashcards like "What I did today," "Places 1," and "Verbs 2." Each card comes with audio to help with pronunciation.

  • Videos: Engage with video lessons that bring the Yoruba language to life through visual and auditory learning.

  • Quizzes: Test your knowledge with quizzes that cover different aspects of the Yoruba language, from basic phrases to advanced grammar.

  • PDF Worksheets: Download and print worksheets for hands-on practice with various exercises and activities.


This week, we are spotlighting the flashcards. Each flashcard set is designed with audio to improve your listening and speaking skills. Why not start with the "Workplace1" flashcards? Check them out here.


Stay tuned in the coming weeks as we feature more of these exciting resources, such as videos and flashcards.


Remember, all these offline learning resources are available at no additional cost. As a valued community member, you have free access to these resources forever, and we’ll continue to add new content to support your learning journey.


This Week in the Community


Let’s dive into the lineup for this week’s Lede Yoruba sessions:


Learn with Stories and Issues - Differences Between Stewards and Slaves in Yoruba Culture:


In this week's story session, we’ll look into the roles of stewards and slaves in traditional Yoruba society, learning the key differences and historical significance of each role. Along the way, you’ll also pick up relevant vocabulary. Here’s what to expect:

  • Stewards ("Ẹnìyàn ìrànwọ́") were individuals who were entrusted with specific tasks or responsibilities, often serving important roles in royal or wealthy households. They were not owned as property but served in exchange for compensation or favors.

  • Slaves ("Ẹrú"), on the other hand, were considered property, often captured during wars or sold into servitude. Though their status was much lower, in Yoruba society, slaves could earn their freedom and even rise in status through loyalty and hard work.

Key Vocabulary for the session:

  • Iṣẹ́ (Work/Task)

  • Ìránwọ́ (Assistance)

  • Ẹrú (Slave)

  • Ọ̀gá (Master)

  • Ìrísí (Appearance/Role)

By the end of this session, you’ll not only understand these roles better but will also be able to use specific Yoruba words to describe them.


Learn with Movies - Discovering Ifokore, the Special Ijebu Meal:


In this week’s movie scene, we’ll learn about the Ifokore, a famous meal of the Ijebus. This dish, made from grated water yam, peppers, and a delicious blend of spices, is beloved for its taste and nutritious benefits. The scene will highlight:

  • The process of making Ifokore, including the ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

  • Its health benefits—many Ijebus believe it works wonders for strength and vitality!

  • How to describe food and cooking in Yoruba: "Ìjẹẹun" (Meal), "Yánrin wàrà" (Grated yam), and "Sísé ounjẹ" (Cooking food).

Key Yoruba phrases you’ll learn:

  • "Ifokore jẹ́ ounjẹ tó ni ìgboyà nílẹ̀ Ijebu" (Ifokore is a meal well-known in Ijebu).

  • "Ìgbéyàwó Ifokore n ṣe ni alágbára" (Eating Ifokore makes you strong).

  • "Ẹ máa wò bí mo ṣe ń ṣe e, kí ẹ lè kẹ́kọ̀ó" (Watch how I make it, so you can learn).

Through this scene, you’ll not only learn how to describe the dish and its preparation but also gain vocabulary for talking about food and health in Yoruba.


Special Event Announcement: Yoruba Cooking Class in Lagos!


We’re thrilled to announce an upcoming Yoruba Cooking Class in Lagos, Nigeria! This "Meet and Chat" event, presented by Lede Yoruba, will be held on Saturday, 28th December 2024, at 11 AM in Lekki, Lagos. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn how to prepare traditional Yoruba dishes like:

  • Mọ́inmọ́in with Ògì

  • Gbegiri, Ewédú, and Bùkà Stew with Àmàlà

  • Ẹ̀fọ́ Rírò with Boiled Yam


Join us for a hands-on culinary experience that will not only teach you how to cook these delicious dishes but also allow you to connect with fellow learners and Yoruba culture enthusiasts.


This week promises to be full of historical insights and culinary delights as we explore the unique aspects of Yoruba culture, from societal roles to delicious traditional meals like Ifokore. 🌟

This week's schedule is the same as always.

Day

Event

PST

EST

BST/WAT

Mon

Meet and Chat 1

12-1pm

3-4pm

8-9pm

Tue

Stories & Issues 1

11am-12pm

2-3pm

7-8pm

Thu

Learn with Movies 1

10-11am

1-2pm

6-7pm

Fri

Stories & Issues 2

3-4pm

6-7pm

11pm-12am

Sat

Meet and Chat 2

1-2pm

4-5pm

9-10pm

Sun

Learn with Movies 2

1-2pm

4-5pm

9-10pm


As always, our informal meetup is where we come together to discuss, share, and celebrate the week's language and cultural discoveries. It's a space where we exchange thoughts, experiences, and appreciation for the richness of Yoruba heritage.


That’s a wrap for this week’s sneak peek, but we’ll catch you in the virtual classroom for some hilariously enriching Yoruba escapades! Until then, keep those smiles wide and your tongues ready to tackle the quirkiest of phrases. 🌟


Cheers,

Mojisola

 
 
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