On 26 November 2024, the BALEAP STEM SIG held a lively workshop that opened up new ways of understanding and teaching the “hidden language” of equations. Facilitators Aaron Woodcock and Laura Duncan led participants through thought-provoking discussions and practical activities to explore how verbalising equations can reveal key language features critical for effective STEM communication.

The session highlighted how mathematical and chemical equations often require an unwritten “hidden language” to verbalise them accurately. From prepositions like “over” in to the pronunciation of Greek letters like π, participants discussed how these features shape understanding in both teaching and research settings.

In small breakout groups, participants shared their own strategies for handling this hidden language, identifying challenges like limited resources and unfamiliar conventions. The facilitators provided useful tools, such as lecture recordings, AI-based support, and collaborative analysis, to help uncover and teach these language features effectively.

The workshop concluded with a discussion of potential next steps, including future sessions to explore:

1. The language of verbalised equations in teaching, possibly through the lens of CEFR’s “explaining concepts and processes” mediation strategy.
2. The language surrounding written equations within research articles.

For more insights, you can view summaries of participant feedback here:
• Quiz 1 Results (Welcome Quiz): Link
• Quiz 2 Results (Group Quiz): Link

What are your thoughts on the hidden language of equations? Share your own challenges and solutions in the comments below!