The fx-CG50 is the most advanced graphic calculator in Casio’s range. It has a number of features that make it a powerful tool for working with statistics, including the capability to: Texas Instruments also produces a range of scientific calculators. Any of these – most of which start with TX-30 – are suitable for GCSE, though if you like to be able to enter your fractions as fractions then you’ll need one of the Multiview models. However, Casio pretty much has a stranglehold on the UK market and not many institutions promote the use of TI models. This powerful calculator enables you to plot and analyse graphs and their transformations, import data directly over USB, plot data charts and calculate statistics, calculate and visualise probability distributions, plot and solve graphs in 3D, calculate matrix and vector arithmetic, perform complex calculations not possible on a scientific calculator, calculate spreadsheets and recursive sequences, and whole host more. A device such as the Casio fx-991CW – the most advanced model in the new ClassWiz range– offers a range of functions that encourage exploration of statistics, including 1-variable tables and bi-variate data support. One unusual query we get periodically is from students asking if they are allowed to take both a scientific and a graphical calculator into the exam. There is nothing to prohibit this, however we would advise that it is better to develop confidence with one model. Stay connected

Take note: A Level Maths candidates are expected to comply with some basic calculator restrictions as follows: However, if you are looking for a calculator to use in your A-Level Maths and A-Level Further Maths exams, this may not be the one for you. Although it gets you quite far in the syllabus, there are certain topics (such as reciprocal graphs) where a more advanced calculator would help you understand the topic that little bit better. A useful FAQ document on using calculators is also available from JCQ. The main change is an explicit mention of Exam mode. This is not only an issue for A Level Maths/Further Maths, so please share with your colleagues teaching subjects with high maths content (especially chemistry). OCR specifications Versions of this calculator also include a solar panel to conserve energy whilst in use, and so this means that less long-term money is spent on battery life. It also features a solar panel (alongside a battery) to charge, and so there is no worry of it running out during an exam and leaving you helpless. In addition, its lightweight case makes it easy to carry around, so it’s perfect for the hustle and bustle of college life.

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Students may deal with spreadsheets, matrix computations, statistics, and more by using the calculator’s 552 features. Additionally, it contains built-in statistics tables that let you calculate the number fast rather than spending time looking through the minuscule statistics table. However, when students are working at greater depth and feel ready to go further in their study of statistics, they could gain a lot from using a calculator with more extensive functionality. The Casio fx-CG50 is a powerful tool to help students deepen their understanding of statistics and realise their full potential in exams. It also happens to be a graphical calculator, so it can plot graphs. It also has a 3D function, meaning that you can work with the x, y, and z planes. Having said that, you can’d go on Wolfram Alpha in your exam and your school might not let you have your phone in class, so the ability to plot graphs in exams is a big plus (though most questions will still make you show working). If you’re doing A-level maths, especially Further Maths, you might also enjoy the process of learning how the calculator works. So I’d say there’s definitely a place for these still, but they are very expensive and are absolutely NOT required for A-level maths. But to answer my most commonly asked question about these…

If you are utilizing Casio Fx-83 GT for your A-Level Maths, it is highly advised that you should definitely buy a new calculator for your A-levels. To avoid wasting valuable test time fumbling about with a calculator you have never used before, it is best to do this as soon as possible so that you can become acclimated to your new calculator.

For A Level Maths, calculators must have an iterative function, as well as the ability to compute summary statistics and to access probabilities from standard statistical distributions. The iterative function can be as simple as the ‘Ans’ button, which can be used to perform repeated iterations efficiently. Almost all scientific calculators now have this button and students may be familiar with using it from GCSE (9-1) Maths. Students could learn to use the table or spreadsheet functions on their calculator for this technique, but there is no need for these. Texas Instruments TI-84 PLUS CE Graphing Calculator is more affordable than the NSpire one. This is the ideal option for you if you want a calculator that is not only reasonably priced but also maintains the excellence of Texas Instruments. Texas Instruments TI-84 PLUS CE Graphing Calculator However, we understand that the prospect of adopting graphing calculator technology to study A-level maths can be somewhat daunting, not just for students but for teachers as well. This diverse functionality, combined with the option to display and analyse statistics in a more visually engaging way, can be a big help to A-level maths students just getting to grips with this topic.

Graphical calculators are allowed in A-Level Maths and A-Level Further Maths, as long as they don’t break the rules I’ve stated above.If they have been using the fx-CG50 from the word go at the start of year 12, which my students have been, they have gained excellent skills and know how to get the best out of the calculator in an exam scenario,” James said. Making the move to the fx-CG50 However, this calculator is a lot smaller than some of the other calculators on this list. I am by no means endorsing you buying this calculator, but maybe it’d be useful for calculating the time you should spend revising? This article should hopefully shed some light on the different types of calculators and their uses, whilst also giving some downsides. That way you know which one is going to be the best option for you and your revision! What calculators are you allowed to take into the exam? In the future, we’re planning to expand our range of support with new initiatives including monthly Topic Deep Dives and student-focused workshops on getting the most out of the fx-CG50.