BSSC EAL students who have gained confidence using English are able to access VCE, VM and VPC classes through the B Stream of EAL.
They can blend their courses—timetabling considered—to best represent their interests and yet continue to receive support in language expansion.
For students preparing to enter the B Stream of EAL, Maths is taught by Vanessa Powell.
Vanessa really enjoys her role and acknowledges the outstanding work of BSSC’s wonderful Multicultural Education Aides—Tha Lan and Mu Soe.
One of the main focuses of maths in EAL A is building capacity in deciphering maths questions because many questions depend on strong literacy skills. It’s not just about numbers.
“My students are all over the maths, it’s just the words in written questions they need to work on.
“Our EAL students are clever, committed to their studies, and have a thirst to learn—but, like anyone in a new setting—confidence is key,” Vanessa says. “I know when a student says, ‘I’m no good at maths’ they are most likely quite capable mathematically, but need to realise the numbers are not the challenge.”
Vanessa makes a point of encouraging conversations in class with students often working in groups.
… say ‘hello’ today.
