2a. Write expressions that record operations with numbers and with letters standing for numbers. For example, express the calculation "Subtract y from 5" as 5 – y.

Really, all we're asking here is for students to be able to translate English into Algebrese. That's it.

Start with simple phrases in English that spell out to students exactly what they should be writing. Seriously, give them things like, "Add 5 to x," and "Multiply b by 2." Translating these kinds of math statements into expressions like x + 5 and 2b is the first step.

Then, make things ever so slightly more complicated. Use words that don't give away the operation, like using "triple d" to mean 3d. Give them slightly longer expressions instead of ones with only one or two terms. With a little practice (and possibly a pocket English-to-Algebrese dictionary), students should be able to master this kind of translation.

Eventually, the goal is for them to translate entire situations into expressions, but that's for later. In the meantime, get students comfortable with the lingo of expressions and how they can move smoothly in between these languages. They'll be able to put "Bilingual" on their resume in no time!