Scots, the West-Germanic language, has declined in popularity in recent history, however their words are still used by many people.
Teachers can use these short clips in the classroom to explore the Scots language, how to use Scots words creatively, understand their meaning and the context in which to use them. They provide examples of formal and informal language, poetry and rhyme, and dialect.
In this collection, there are a number of short films that explore the use of the Scots language by a variety of people - including the poet Mark Thomson, Olympic curling champion Rhona Martin and broadcaster Kaye Adams. They each pick out their favourite Scots words and we see how they incorporate them into their daily life.
These clips are from the BBC Series, Blethering Scots, first broadcast in 2011.
These clips are suitable for teaching English Language at KS3 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and 3rd level in Scotland.
Scots words for weather. video
Presenter and singer Michelle McManus describes the weather in Scots.
Scots words in the world of curling. video
Rhona Martin, Olympic Gold Medalist and former curler, uses Scots words to describe curling.
The news in Scots. video
Broadcaster Catriona Shearer compares modern official use of English with the 16th Century uses.
The power of Scots words. video
Journalist and TV presenter Kaye Adams describes her experiences of using Scots in her professional life.
Scots words to describe expressive arts. video
The artist Jolomo explains how Scots words often sums up his thoughts about a landscape.
Retaining Scots words in our everyday lives. video
Poet Mark Thomson comments on the words and sounds of Scots language.
Scots language traditions. video
How poet Rab Wilson writes, speaks and makes his living from the Scots language.
