Despite a 1986 National Council of Teachers of Mathematics recommendation calling for the inclusion of calculators in all aspects of math instruction, most math departments have an unwritten rule restricting classroom use of calculators. Teachers must accommodate the new essential skills, even if it means eliminating traditional practices.…

Calculator riddles can interest elementary students in math. Solving riddles where a numerical answer turned upside down reveals a word answer provides an amusing way to practice mathematical operations and learn about calculator functions. The paper explains how to create word riddles and includes student work pages. (SM)

Presents a mathematics activity using hand-held technology that can be used with elementary school students. Uses graphing calculators and calculator-based laboratories in this activity. (Contains 11 references.) (ASK)

This article describes a project in which certain key concepts in probability were explored using graphics calculators with year 10 students. The lessons were conducted in the regular classroom where students were provided with a Casio CFX 9850 GB PLUS graphics calculator with which they were familiar from year 9. The participants in the…

We find that students in the big mathematics service courses at the Johns Hopkins University who were encouraged to use calculators in K-12 have somewhat lower grades than those who weren't.

Todd Lee and colleagues share some of the common technology "pranks" and peculiarities from the three most common technology tools used in our classrooms: Microsoft Excel, graphing calculators, and The Geometer's Sketchpad. The "Surfing Note" includes a link to a collection of funny math cartoons from the Carolina Biological Supply Company.

The authors provide a framework to aid instructional decision-making regarding classroom calculator use. The guide focuses on both teacher goals and the students' needs and abilities. The reader is challenged to rethink the possible role that calculators can serve for all students, in particular, as a classroom accommodation for students with…

Graphic tips for using the Geometer's Sketchpad (GSP) are described. The methods to import an image into GSP, define a coordinate system, plot points and curve fit the function using a graphical calculator are demonstrated where the graphic features of GSP allow teachers to expand the use of the technology application beyond the classroom.

The ultimate goal of high school mathematics teachers is to create a meaningful learning environment that is conducive to teaching students the necessary concepts for academic achievement. Unfortunately, evidence suggests that many secondary educators still teach in a rote lecture style that focuses on the teacher providing information to passive,…

It is noted that calculator usage is increasing and that little information was found on the effect of calculators on learning mathematics in elementary school. The activities described and included are intended to be examples of ways in which calculators may be used with existing curriculum materials. It is assumed that each teacher would select,…

This study compares the effectiveness of an electronic calculator, programmed as an immediate feedback device, with the effectiveness of pencil-and-paper exercises without immediate feedback for the learning of the 100 basic multiplication combinations. These two methods were also compared with regular classroom procedures. Subjects were…

Argues the failure of calculators to show significant numbers only predicates a re-evaluation of the types and uses of electronic calculators in schools. (CP)

The programable calculator is suggested as a means of introducing elementary school students to certain features of computers. A one-hour presentation is described. (MP)

Six bonuses that students and teachers experience when using calculators are described. Then problem solving and creative problem-making are discussed, followed by practical suggestions for teachers who want to try calculators. Advice on personalizing the use of calculators and recognizing some of their limitations is also included. (MNS)