Gete MacDonald is a classic song for learning words, rhythms, and sounds. This version introduces the words “gitige” (to plant), “gitigaan” (a field or a garden) and “gitgaaning” (in the field or in the garden). The simple repetitive rhythm also reinforces the sounds of the language.

Readers new to Ojibwemowin should first review the sounds of our language and then enjoy the way e-i-e-i-o becomes ii-ay-ii-ay-o or the way a duck says “kwek” and a horse says “ne.”

You will find a few special words because this version was developed by teachers at Oshki-Ogimaag Maajiigi-gikinoo’amaadiiwigamig (New Leaders School at Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa) and Odatagaagobikaadina Maajiigi-gikinoo’amaadiiwigamig, Gichi-Biitoobigong, Minnesota (Sawtooth Mountain Elementary in Grand Marais, Minnesota). In this area known as the “Border Lakes” both “gaazhagens” and “bizhiins” are used for cat. And there are two types of “bizhiki”: the bizhiiki who is mashkodeng (on the prairie) and the bizhiki who is ziininind (milked).

An audio sample of all the animal names is included below as well as a few verses with both long and short animal names. Mikwendan, apiitendaagwak ji-minwendaagoziyan epiichii bakaanitaagoziyan miinawaa wawiyazhitaagoziyan!

Remember, it’s important to have fun while you are sounding different and sounding funny!