Which kind of graphing calculator should I buy?

  • Context: High School 
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around selecting an appropriate graphing calculator for high school mathematics courses, including Algebra 2, Honors Chemistry, and upcoming Calculus and Physics classes. Participants share their experiences and preferences regarding different models, particularly the TI series and HP calculators.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant is considering the HP 50g due to a family recommendation but notes that teachers predominantly use TI calculators.
  • Another participant plans to acquire the TI-89 Titanium, mentioning that their school may provide TI NSpires for Calculus AP students.
  • A participant in the IB program explains that their course structure combines precalculus and calculus, which may influence calculator choice.
  • One participant offers to sell a Casio CFX-9850GC Plus, indicating a personal surplus of calculators.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of using the same calculator as the teacher to facilitate learning, noting that different models may have varying interfaces that could hinder understanding during lessons.
  • A participant expresses satisfaction with the TI-84 Plus, highlighting its user-friendliness.
  • One participant suggests that while any graphing calculator is usable, the TI-89 offers advanced functions that may be beneficial for higher-level math courses.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on which calculator to choose, with some advocating for TI models due to teacher familiarity, while others suggest alternatives like the HP 50g or Casio. There is no consensus on a single best option, as preferences and needs vary among participants.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention specific models and their functionalities, but there is no detailed comparison of features or limitations of each calculator. The discussion reflects personal experiences and recommendations rather than a comprehensive analysis of all available options.

Who May Find This Useful

Students preparing for high school mathematics courses, particularly those in Algebra 2, Calculus, and Chemistry, as well as those interested in the practical use of graphing calculators in educational settings.

stephen92
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I'm having a bit of a problem with choosing a calculator, I am taking algebra 2 and Honors Chem and plan to take calculus AP Chem and Physics next year. The teachers have stopped supplying the TI-83s and I need to know what to invest in. My dad has insited I go with the HP 50g as he is an enginner but all the teachers use TI's. Any suggestions?
 
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I'm in the same situation as you right now, I will probably be getting the TI-89 Titanium if I do not get one next year from my teachers.. Supposedly, our school is ordering the TI NSpires for the Calc AP kids.

weird that you aren't taking precalc but Alg 2.. thought it was like nearly required to take precalc prior to Calc.
 
I am in the IB (International Bacchalorate) program, it mixes the two (pre-calc and Calc) into one year-long course, or at least that is what I heard, right now though I'm a 10th grader so I'm taking Hon/Pre-IB Algebra 2
 
Last edited:
buy mine. I won one and I don't need 2

Casio CFX-9850GC Plus
 
If your teachers are using TIs then I would definitely recommend grabbing one. In fact if you know that they are going to be using TI-83s than you should be. It makes it easier to follow along in lessons when the teacher says "Push these buttons". If you had an HP it probably does not have the same buttons.

Now it can probably do the same things the TI can do, but consider that the teacher can not take time out of a lesson plan to help you figure out how to do something on your calculator that they are not familiar with. Which means you would have to figure it out yourself, or perhaps stay after class for extra help.

Even some of the TIs have very different interfaces. The 83 and the 89 definitely do have slightly different menus which makes continuity with the teachers plans difficult. This is why I recommend trying to get the exact calculator your teacher is using.
 
I'm very satisfied with my TI-84 Plus, it is very user friendly. I agree with Diffy:smile:
 
Any graphing calculator is fine as long as you know how to use it. I can let you know, however, that after using the TI-89, I feel handicapped when using calculators like the 84. At your current level, the 84 will probably do (although sometimes you might wish you had the 89's solve function). In my opinion, if you are going to invest in a calculator that you will take onto higher level math courses, definitely get the 89.
 

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