Intermediate Algebra: When to "Step Up" Calculator

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Holocene
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Calculator
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the necessity and utility of different types of calculators, particularly in the context of studying intermediate algebra and preparing for higher-level mathematics courses. Participants explore when it might be appropriate to transition from basic calculators to more advanced graphing calculators, as well as the role of calculators in exams and learning environments.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions when they might need to upgrade from a basic calculator as they begin studying intermediate algebra.
  • Another participant suggests that a basic calculator may suffice for most mathematics, while recommending familiarity with software like Maple or Mathematica for advanced studies.
  • Concerns are raised about the necessity of graphing calculators for college math courses, with some arguing they are not required and can be forbidden on exams.
  • Some participants express that as mathematics becomes more advanced, the focus shifts from calculations to proofs and general results, reducing the need for calculators.
  • A participant notes that graphing calculators can be useful for visualizing functions and performing tasks like curve fitting, particularly in courses like Trigonometry and Statistics.
  • Another participant emphasizes that exam questions are designed to be manageable without a calculator, suggesting that students will not face overly complex calculations.
  • Clarification is sought on what is meant by "intermediate algebra," with references made to Algebra II and its relation to the use of graphing calculators.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the necessity of graphing calculators, with some arguing they are not required and others suggesting they are beneficial for certain courses. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the overall need for advanced calculators in intermediate algebra and beyond.

Contextual Notes

There are varying definitions of "intermediate algebra," and participants express differing opinions on calculator usage in exams and coursework. The discussion highlights the conditionality of calculator requirements based on specific courses and educational contexts.

Holocene
Messages
237
Reaction score
0
At what point in my study of mathematics will I need to "step up", from the basic 10-digit, 1 line, TI-30XA?

Keep in mind I'm only starting to get into intermediate algebra.
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
Probably never. Most mathematics is not without a calculator, and my Sharp EL510 has served me fine for a long time. However, you may want to learn to use familiarize yourself with mathematics software such as Maple or Mathematica at some point.
 
Thanks, but what is the purpose of the "graphing" calculators.

Won't one of those eventually be required for college math courses?
 
It's never been required for me, and they're essentially forbidden on all exams. They can occasionally be useful for sketching curves, but one of the main parts of Calculus I is to learn how to sketch these curves without a graphing calculator.
 
Since HS I've almost never used a calculator. The reason is that as the math gets more advanced you're more interested in proofs and general results than in a specific calculation. Whenever I do need some complicated calculation I can always use a computer.
 
Thanks for the replies.

Forbidden on exams?

That has to suck when you need to multiply or divide large numbers, find roots, etc...
 
Sorry, regular calculators are usually allowed, graphing calculators are forbidden.
 
Holocene said:
At what point in my study of mathematics will I need to "step up", from the basic 10-digit, 1 line, TI-30XA?

Keep in mind I'm only starting to get into intermediate algebra.

Graphing Calculators become helpful for Trigonometry and for College Algebra, and also for courses on Statistics. They are helpful as flexible custom answer keys for graphs and information which occurs in graphs. What you learn in Intermediate Algebra, although much tougher than Introductory Algebra, is far too simple for the power of a graphing calculator.

There is more to consider: in case you need to see an answer in the back of the book to check your work, and if that answer is not there, you may be able to use the graphing calculator for this. Also, the intermediate level gives you some skills for curve fitting for which a graphing calculator can be very efficient for you as a tool.
 
Holocene said:
Thanks for the replies.

Forbidden on exams?

That has to suck when you need to multiply or divide large numbers, find roots, etc...

You usually find, the exam board let's you have everything you need, as in they aren't going to give you some complex equation with 5 decimal places, and ask you to cube it. Everything they ask for is achievable especially at college, with obviously a lot of work.
 
  • #10
What do you mean by intermediate algebra? Like algebra II? I think the only thing you'd really need a graphing calculator for would be to find intervals of increase and decrease of functions, which you'll learn how to do by hand in calculus.
 
  • #11
Feldoh said:
What do you mean by intermediate algebra? Like algebra II? I think the only thing you'd really need a graphing calculator for would be to find intervals of increase and decrease of functions, which you'll learn how to do by hand in calculus.

Yep, pretty much Algebra 2. Thanks.
 

Similar threads

High School Missing out on intermediate algebraic steps
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
2K
High School Why Does This Algebraic Identity Work in Relativistic Doppler Calculations?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
High School New solutions to old, historic problems
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
High School Confused about ciphers in the book 'Arithmetic for the Practical Man'
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
High School Need an on-line calculator for a simple calculation
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
4K
High School What's the difference? "Types" of Algebra, etc
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
High School Calculating Rod Speeds with Algebraic Formulas
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
High School Cartesian Space vs. Euclidean Space
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
Graduate The abc conjecture and Virasoro algebra
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
High School Mathematics in STEM fields: GATEKEEPER OR GATEWAY?
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K