Scots and literacy development
1. Introduction
In this unit by Bruce Eunson you will be exploring the educational benefits of using Scots language in the classroom, particularly for the development of learners’ literacy skills – which are a responsibility for all teachers (Curriculum for Excellence: literacy across learning principles and practice)
Specifically, you will focus on working with Scots on the Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) 2nd Level (Primary 5-7 classes). You will also investigate the benefits of making links between Scots and other areas of the curriculum. Even if you are currently working at different CfE levels, you will come across useful strategies and activities in the unit which can easily be transferred to and translated into your particular context.
Key learning points
to learn about using Scots language in a primary classroom as a building block of Scots provision across all levels
to write your own lesson plan for using Scots to support literacy development in your classroom
to transfer insights from this unit into your own professional context, even if that is the secondary classroom
to consider the expectations of teachers’ proficiency in Scots incorporating it in the classroom
to build upon your existing knowledge and experience and further develop your classroom skills with a focus on Scots language
- to begin considering embedding Scots language in your classroom as a driver for inclusive education