Mathematics has been called the universal language, it allows existing knowledge to activated as a lead into the teaching of new skills and concepts,however, there is a potential disadvantage. It can lead to high levels of frustration when students find that their lack of English interferes with their ability to do maths that they would otherwise find easy. They go from high achievers in the subject in their own language to strugglers in the maths class at NIS. This can be a blow to their self-confidence and self-esteem.