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When can I use a calculator for Math work?

Overview

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

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An exception not covered below:

  • Irvington students are allowed to use calculators.

Additionally, Academics maintains this list of exceptions (column I = YES) for specific lessons they've decided to add (point #3 in the list of policies). Make sure to review it if in doubt or for new additions.

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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, when IXL includes a calculator in the lesson for you to use, or when Math Academy specifically mentions that the use of a calculator is allowed for that lesson). 
  3. For some specific lessons that are known exceptions: 
  4. 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 go master those skills—you’ve got this! 

As always, if you need additional help with any operations, reach out to your Guide or contact us; we will be happy to help. 

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.

Summary

Using a calculator for Math work is not allowed in Alpha except in the following cases: 

  1. You are taking a test (or practicing for a test) that allows the use of a calculator.
  2. The learning app specifically permits the use of a calculator for that skill.
  3. The Head of Academics has granted you permission to use a calculator for Math.

In all other cases, you should complete your operations manually, as this will help you develop important skills. The recommended calculator to use for Math work is desmos, and this is also the tool used during common official tests. 

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  1. Alonso Aguirre

  2. Posted
  3. Updated

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