USING GRAPHING CALCULATORS IN MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL MATH

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I am a HUGE advocate for teaching students how to use a graphing calculator to check their answers. In fact, it’s probably one of the MOST important skills I’ve taught my students. Yes, I know…being able to find a solution algebraically is extremely important, and of course, I teach them that. And, of course, I require them to show their work. BUT, when they turn in an assessment, I want them to be confident that their answers are correct. Feedback is extremely helpful, and by using the graphing calculator it can be instant!


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You know, I probably should have titled this post “The Lost Art of Checking Your Answers”. Sometimes I simply don’t understand why students don’t check their answers?!?! I know that some students are just too “lazy” to check, algebraically. Yes, I said it! BUT, at they could at least use their calculator to confirm or disaffirm their answer. Just think, if students were able to check every problem BEFORE they turn in their work? Then, they would know immediately if they have an answer right or wrong…and if wrong, they can fix it!

There are soooooo many math topics that students can use the calculator to check their answers. Here are just a few ways:

• Factoring: graph and check for zeros
• Converting fractions to decimals and vice versa
• Inverse Functions: graph two functions to see if they reflect over y = x
• Linear Inequalities: use shading features on the calculator
• Radicals: type in the original radical expression and your simplified radical expression to see if the answers match
• Evaluate Functions: enter the function in Y= and use the YVAR function to evaluate for a specific number
• Rational Functions: view asymptote(s), hole(s), and zeros
• Systems of Equations: check substitution/elimination method by graphing
• Logarithms: evaluating and confirming two statements are equal
• AND SO MANY MORE…

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​If you are looking for a complete bundle of all of my TI-84 or TI-Nspire calculator sheets, to help your students easily maneuver though the calculator, you can click on one of the images below:

​​These sheets will help you integrate calculators into your lessons as a central tool in developing students’ mathematical connections, conceptual understanding, and procedural fluency.