New mathematical concepts are introduced to students through the use of language. First, the ordinary language of the students can convey mathematical concepts; for example, “I am three”, “my bear is next to the table”. As students progress in their understanding and experiences with mathematics, the language they use also progresses to become more mathematical and symbolic. For example, the concept of subtraction can be described using lost, covered up, take away, subtract, and the symbol “–”. The level of abstraction in the language used can develop over time and be varied to suit particular student or conceptual needs.