This is a model answer. You might have responded to the activity differently.

I am getting a good idea of why the line between Scots and English is so difficult to define. Once you know all about how the two languages developed it is much easier to understand why this is. Even a broad Scots speaker will still use many words which can also be called English – and that’s ok! Whether the class are writing in Scots or speaking in Scots, they don’t need to avoid words or phrases which at first feel very English.

Languages travel across borders just like people do and the best way to encourage young writers/speakers is to make them feel comfortable, give them confidence and to encourage questions. I also don’t need to worry if I don’t know all the answers. I want to create a learning environment for my class where the learners bring their expertise to me. (And I can always email the course tutor for help!!) I have enjoyed learning about “descriptive linguistics” and as I have learners in my class who have a number of different L1 or home languages which I’d like to encourage more discussion of to get them to share not only their own home languages but also their knowledge of languages other than English. In my subject area I am always trying to increase their confidence to contribute in class.

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