I am about to make some cookies but it asks for shortening what is it I am from Scotland and we would use lard is it the same?

Yes, you can use butter, lard or other animal fat instead of shortening, same volume as the recipe calls for. Shortening, aka Crisco, is a hydrogenated vegetable fat developer d in USA early 20c. It has fallen our of favor because of concerns with its trans fats, and many are 're-working recipes with substitutes.