http://www.the3towns.com/index.htmlQuote:
North Ayrshire Council has defended the use of the Scots language in schools after a Tory-supporting, English newspaper criticised the practice and claimed local children were being “taught how to send text messages in slang”.
In a small, Scottish sub-section of the London-based newspaper, it was claimed the SNP Government’s new Curriculum for Excellence would see children “learn how to communicate in slang”. The article also listed North Ayrshire as one of three areas in Scotland where “teachers have been told” local language must be brought into the classroom.
In fact, the Curriculum for Excellence simply encourages study of the ‘diversity of language’ and highlights ‘Scots’ as a distinct language, recognised by both the Scottish and UK Governments.
Lessons taught in North Ayrshire schools have, for many years, included reference to the works of Robert Burns, the Ayrshire-born national bard of Scotland who wrote in the Scots tongue.
Responding to the allegations of pupils being taught slang, a local teacher told the3towns.com, “This is just ignorant nonsense from an out-of-touch newspaper.”
The teacher continued, “When I was a young pupil it wasn’t uncommon for teachers to belt you if you used Scots words in the classroom, but that was recognised years ago as being wrong.
“Of course it is vitally important that pupils are taught the English language, but there is absolutely nothing wrong with using and learning about our own Scots tongue too. If it was good enough for Rabbie Burns, its good enough for me.”
In North Ayrshire schools, children have been encouraged to take part in competitions organised by the Itchy Coo education project, which works with pupils and teachers to develop their Scots reading and writing skills. Itchy Coo also promotes Scots to the wider public through liaison with the Scottish Parliament, national organisations and at international level. Organisers of the project state their aim is, “to encourage better understanding and greater acceptance of the Scots Language in education and in all aspects of Scottish life.”
Itchy Coo records the reactions of three local primary school teachers to their pupils writing poems in Scots. A P2 teacher at Ardrossan’s Stanley Primary states, “Children loved doing this.” A P5 teacher at Caledonia Primary in Saltcoats said, “Pupils found the activity enjoyable and were keen to participate,” while a P7 colleague commented, “children thoroughly enjoyed using Burns as a stimulus.”
Login
FAQ
Search
