The must have technology for any high school or college student: TI-84 Plus

School is fast approaching…8 hours, but who’s counting. One question that is always asked is, what type of calculator should you get. The answer is simple – the TI-84. Texas Instruments has had a stronghold on the educational calculator business since I was in elementary school. The TI-84 is essentially an update to the original TI-82, then the TI-83 and TI-83 Silver Edition. The TI-84 Plus and 84 Plus Silver Edition are the standard for most high schools. Most of the texts written today have their technology components geared to the TI. It is the best “acceptable” calculator for standardized tests, SATs, ACTs, and many college entrance exams. What makes this graphing calculator great is its ease of use – it doesn’t take a PhD to figure it out. The analysis and calculations that you can do on the calculator has increased the amount of learning in any mathematics curriculum. With the TI-84, I focus more on analysis, inquiry, and discovery rather than button pushing and skill and kill. With the help of this handy calc, I can ask “Why? What if? or Discover…” rather than “Just give me the answer!”. Additionally, the calculator allows connectivity with your PC, you can run apps, attach scientific probe devices, and transfer data between calculators.

There are other calculators and companies out there – don’t bother. Most staff is trained on the TI. Most courses focus on the TI. Most professional development for teachers is on the TI. The calculator has a long life span too – a seventh grader will use this all the way to their senior year in college. Don’t go higher than the TI-84 unless you are told by your teacher to do so. Most of the higher functioning calculators are overkill for most, and at times are not allowed on tests.

Now is the time to get the calc – they are on sale for start of school. And trust me, it will last you. One word of advice: these calculators are hot! When you get the calculator, make sure that you personalize it so you can recognize it. You can purchase additional face plates and covers Also, each calculator has a unique ID in the settings menu – make sure you write that number down. If the calculator gets misplaced, you will have an easier time finding it knowing your serial number.

For more information about the TI-84 Plus – visit education.ti.com