Academics

Calculator Policy & Requirements

Calculator Policy

All Elk Grove math courses actively integrate graphing calculator technology with the mathematics curriculum, a curriculum that is aligned with the state content standards and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Principles and Standards. One of the principles guiding the curriculum is the use of technology. Calculators and computers enable us to make and test conjectures. Inherent in our use of technology is the concept of knowing when and how to use the technology as a tool to enhance the learner's mathematical reasoning skills

The graphing calculator is required for all students enrolled in a general or honors level mathematics course. Much of the general and honors level high school math curriculum incorporates the use of graphing calculators. Many science courses at Elk Grove High School also incorporate graphing calculators. In addition, the various tests administered by the College Board (SAT, SAT II, Advanced Placement), Educational Testing Service (EXPLORE, PLAN, ACT), and the State of Illinois assessment (PSAE) either permit or require the use of a graphing calculator.

A Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus® is the new standard tool for Elk Grove. Several other manufacturers make excellent graphing calculators. However, the features and usability of each vary considerably. Texas Instruments graphing calculators were chosen because of the combination of features and ease of use for high school students. Many activities have been developed specifically around the features available on the Texas Instruments® calculators, and teachers have been trained on their use. Of course, students may purchase other calculators and use the manuals for instructions, as teachers will probably not be able to assist them.

Students can purchase a TI-84 Plus graphing calculator from the Math/Science Division office (rm. 212) if they do not already own a graphing calculator. Students can download an upgrade from the Texas Instruments web page free of charge. TI Graph Links are standard accessories with the calculator purchase.

It is important that students develop a degree of skill with the calculator and be able to practice various problem-solving techniques using it. This is best accomplished when each student has a calculator available for his or her use at all times. See the Calculator Requirements below to determine the calculator recommended for each course. The recommendation means that significant portions of the course require a calculator in order to meet the objectives. Calculators may not be shared during a quiz, test, or final exam, and communication between calculators is prohibited during quizzes, tests, or final exams.

While the calculator is an invaluable tool for studying mathematics, there will be times when the instructor deems that a particular topic or skill is more appropriately investigated and assessed without the use of a calculator.

Some of the latest calculator technology provides students with the ability to import, store, and hide games. If a student is found playing game at an inappropriate time during class, we reserve the right to remove the inappropriate materials by clearing the memory of the calculator.

Calculator Requirements

450s level - Prep Math: Scientific Recommended (TI 30SXII)
Not used for PSAE test or preparation

460s level - Algebra, geometry: Scientific Required
TI 30SXII
Graphing Calculator Recommended for juniors and PSAE testing

470s level - Algebra, geometry, advanced algebra: Graphing Calculator Required
TI-84 Plus

480s/490s level - Advanced Algebra, geometry, pre-calculus, AP calculus: Graphing Calculator Required
TI-84 Plus

Math electives (Advanced mathematics, 459; Functions, 476; Trigonometry, 477; Probability & Statistics, 478; Discrete Math, 479: Graphing Calculator Required
TI-84 Plus

AP Statistics: Graphing Calculator Required
TI-84 Plus

Please contact the Math/Science Division Assistant (847-718-4488) for finance options and information. If you have further questions or need information regarding the calculator use, please contact your child’s teacher for clarification.

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