There are several calculators out on the market today.  The prices of these calculators vary greatly from model to model.  For our math class, any calculator will be acceptable--from the basic four function calculator to the much more expensive graphing calculator. 

I will make a recommendation for calculators.  My preference, because I have worked with it the most, is the TI-30 XII S.  This is made by Texas Instruments and is solar powered.  It costs approximately $13-$15.  This calculator can also be used in future classes.  There is an equivalent calculator made by Casio. It is the fx-300MS.  This one is also solar powered.  I believe there are versions of both of these that are not solar powered.  This will work just the same, but will require battery replacement at some point.  Another calculator that could be used is the Texas Instruments Math Explorer.  This calculator is designed for the middle school student.  It is designed to work with fractions.   The previously mentioned calculators do as well.  The most important thing when picking out a calculator is to keep the student in mind.  You want to get a calculator that the student can use.  You want the one you think is the most user friendly.  I can show the students how to do any of the operations that we do in class.  They are not expected to know how to use all of the functions on the calculator. 

I hope this will be helpful as you pick out the calculator for your student's use.  If you have questions, please email me and I will do my best to find the answer. 

I will let students know when they may begin using calculators.

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