Osage language app now available on Android and Apple iOS

Social Media is stirring with excitement regarding the Osage Nation Language Department’s newest development, the first Osage language mobile application, WahZhaZhe


Pawhuska, Oklahoma (November 2, 2017)--The development of the Osage Nation's premier Osage Language App was a lengthy process. It took more than three years and alot of technological hurdles including putting the Osage orthography (the Osage writing system) into Unicode, a digital coding system needed to include the orthography on the app. The app in its unreleased form is available for download by Android and Apple users and is proving to be worth the wait and well received by people of all ages and geographic locations. And, use of the app is already being implemented into the daily learning activities at the Osage Immersion School and WahZhaZhe Early Learning Academies.

The Office of the Director of Operations for the Osage Nation prepared the following how-to for immediate access to the language app.

How to download the app to Android and Apple devices:
  1. Connect your Android or Apple device to Wifi
  2. Search “WahZhaZhe” at the Play Store or the App Store on an Android or Apple device
  3. Find the App option with the Osage seal icon and select
  4. Select "Install" to download the App
The application is approximately 375 MB that requires a wifi connection. After it is downloaded to a device it will not require a data connection unless an update is required.The language app home screen contains buttons for Language, Culture Notes, Search, and Credits.

Language – (category options: Learn, Games, Quizzes) The Language tab contains approximately 526 words and phrases which are separated into 33 categories. Each category allows users to learn the language by listening to a word or phrase, reading the orthography, and self-recording for playback and audio learning. Gamesincrease in intensity from easy to hard. After familiarizing with the words and phrases contained in each category there are corresponding quizzes to self-test. Quizzes test listening, speaking, and reading skills.

Culture Notes – (category options: Audio, Video, Images) The Culture Notes tab contains approximately 15 files. Users can listen to an Osage language only speech delivered in June 1965 by an Osage elder; learn the Counting Song, and view the most up-to-date map of Osage ancestral territories. Users can tap on the photos in the Images category to zoom-in on the maps and paintings for a closer view.

Search –Search for any entry via the Search tab. Simply tap “Search” and you will be directed to an alphabetized list of all entries contained within the app. Users can scroll through the list or type a specific word or phrase.

Credits – The Credits tab acknowledges the departments and individuals who were instrumental in the creation of the app. For tech support select the link to Thornton Media, Inc.

Next User Steps
Download WahZhaZhe toany Android or Apple device. Rate the app on your Android or Apple device.

Submit photos or videos of you and/or your family utilizing the app to @email.