Si Mohamed: I speak Arabic, French and English. Did you know that I learned English from the foreigners who come into my shop? That's all! For years and years, I pick up a few words here and there, and voila!
Jane's Commentary: When Si Mohamed says he speaks Arabic, he means that he speaks the Moroccan dialect of Arabic called Darija. He also reads the Quran, so he probably reads Classical Arabic well and can speak it too. Moroccans usually learn French in school, starting from elementary school. What Si Mohamed said about learning English is true for many Moroccans! It is especially true for those who work in shops where there are a lot of tourists or for taxi drivers who encounter foreigners often.
Si Mohamed: Pets?
Jane's Commentary: Si Mohamed laughed at the concept of a "pet." This is because in Morocco it is not very common for Moroccans to own animals that live inside their homes. Younger Moroccans sometimes have pet dogs or cats, but it is not common for the older generations to have pets or even understand the concept! But, there are plenty of street cats that everyone takes care of!
UPLift Prompt: How can the community make sure that all of the street cats in Morocco are well taken care of? Can you think of any inventions that might help feed or keep safe the many street cats here?
