Ballard 1979

Ballard, Arlene. 1979. "How the Ibaloi language reflects the basic values behavioral profile." In Mayers and Hargrave 1979. Interest level: specialist.

Analyzes the Ibaloi language in terms of Mayer's basic values. Focuses particularly on how the language reveals vulnerability as weakness. "No one is ever directly accused of doing anything wrong" (page 58). Ibaloi are reluctant to reveal much about themselves and stay uninvolved. Tendency is toward dichotomy, illustrated by their countless words for rice in its different stages and the specific words for extended family relationships. Ibaloi speak in terms of events rather than specific time. Ibaloi language illustrates they do everything to maintain smooth relationships and they greatly respect authority.

Good case study that uses values model. Is interesting to see how the culture's values are reflected in their language. Shows importance of being aware of values in constructing literacy materials. Could make many unintentional cultural mistakes if these values are not understood. Article could be more complete.

• Bibliography module: Ballard 1979
• In overview module: Bibliography (Literacy): B
• In modular book: Bibliography (Literacy), by Doris Gallemore, Trudi C. Hunt, Jeanne Swanson, and Stephen L. Walter
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This page is an extract from the LinguaLinks Library, Version 4.0, published on CD-ROM by SIL International, 1999. [Ordering information.]

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