As a student at Alpha, you may be curious about the policies on calculator use. Perhaps this question comes up while working on a math lesson that requires you to perform lengthy calculations seemingly unrelated to the lesson's main objective. Look no further—we’ll explain it here! 

Contents

• Current policies
• About recommended calculators

Current policies

Based on years of experience, the Academics Team has established that, in general, calculators are not allowed while working on any Math lessons. Students are only allowed to use a calculator when working on Math lessons in the following cases: 

1. When taking a test or specifically practicing for tests where calculators are allowed (for example, SAT practice in Bluebook). 
2. When the app specifically indicates that calculators are allowed (for example, some Math Academy lessons specifically mention that the use of a calculator is allowed for that lesson).
3. When you have received explicit permission from the Head of Academics for your school. 
   • Usually, this will only be allowed in special cases when there is a very good reason (for example, if you have demonstrated fluency in all operations by passing the required tests, and using a calculator will help you achieve specific goals).

In all other cases, note that manually completing the operations yourself will strengthen your Math fluency and serve as valuable practice. Even when it's not necessarily the main objective of the lesson, consistent practice will help you develop your Math skillset. So, grab your pen and paper, and master those skills—you’ve got this!

About recommended calculators

Sometimes, Students and Guides wonder about recommended calculators, both virtual/online and physical (handheld). These are the recommendations from Academics:

1. The general recommendation is to use the online calculator desmos: https://www.desmos.com/calculator

   • This calculator covers all functions students typically require. 

   • Practicing on this version is strongly recommended because it mirrors official testing environments. In particular, it's provided as a tool in Edulastic tests and complies with the official SAT recommendations as well (SAT Calculator Policy). 

   • As a result, practicing with desmos builds familiarity with the tools students will use during assessments, which can help boost confidence and efficiency.

   • During SAT coaching in Alpha High School, students learn graphing shortcuts from their SAT Tutor. However, many students also self-teach desmos using online resources; this guide can help anyone get started if needed: Getting Started with Desmos Graphing Calculator.

2. Handheld calculators are allowed, as long as they comply with the STAAR calculator policy (e.g., no CAS systems or smartphone apps, memory must be cleared to factory default both before and after testing, etc.). 

3. Some campuses may have handheld calculators available upon request, but if that's not the case and you believe this is necessary, Students can consult with Guides, and Guides can consult with Campus Coordinators on whether acquiring some calculators is possible.