Scots positively impacted on other areas (The Herald, 7 Sept 2017). Scots can assist learners develop the skills required for success in national qualifications in English. Most teachers agreed that the use of Scots can help to engage reluctant learners and the use of Scots “gave some lower-attaining children the confidence to take on leadership roles for the first time”. Teachers in one secondary school felt that allowing pupils to use Scots “removed the barriers to learning experiences for some, and created opportunities for them to access the curriculum”. The report found evidence that the use of Scots resulted in improvements in some lower-attaining pupils’ writing skills, motivation and behaviour. The report concluded (p 7),
“There is clear evidence to confirm the educational benefits of including Scots in Curriculum for Excellence. Scots can support children and young people to develop a range of important skills in literacy, including advanced reading and writing skills required for success in national qualifications. Scots as part of Curriculum for Excellence can support young people in developing their confidence and a sense of their own identity. It can help to engage learners whose mither tongue is Scots by making them feel more valued and included, and therefore more motivated to take part in lessons, to lead learning, and to achieve more highly”.
Scots language ‘helps pupils in English exams’
THE teaching of the Scots language is having a positive impact on the attainment of pupils in English qualifications, according to a new report. Research shows teachers believe the language can particularly help disengaged pupils and those who are not high academic achievers.