And while many algebraic techniques use symbols heavily, their meanings are explained using spoken language (ACARA, 2014a). This could be problematic for EAL/D and low literacy students, particularly those who have missed a lot of lessons, as they may have missed these explanations. For example, the symbol '2x-4' should be read as 'x is greater than two x minus four'. This would be very difficult for EAL/D students unless they are scaffolded with written and spoken language (ACARA,