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Grades 03–05
Calculators are only allowed as an approved accommodation for IEPs and 504s. It is not a blanket accommodation, so check your student’s paperwork to make sure this is an approved tool.
Approved calculator: Basic 4-function W/O negative key (buy one like this on Amazon)
Grades 06–07
All students are allowed to use a calculator.
Approved calculator: Basic 4-function W/O negative key (buy one like this on Amazon)
Grade 08
All students are allowed to use a calculator.
Approved calculator: Standard scientific calculator (buy one like this on Amazon)
Grades 09–12
All high school students will need to be in possession of a graphing calculator. Epic can supply you with one while you are here, but it will need to be returned upon graduation or an exit from the district (just like with Chromebooks and Mi-Fi devices). Students can use this graphing calculator on their ACT, and they will continue to use it in college.
Permitted Calculators: TI-83, TI-83+, TI-84, TI-84+
There are ways to use more advanced calculators, but it’s complicated, and you will run the risk of it being rejected from testing. You will also not need those advanced functions unless you plan on majoring in Math or Engineering, so you are best off with one of the suggested types.
If you do not have a graphing calculator, you can lease one from Epic or buy your own. If you do want to buy your own, I recommend purchasing one from Math4Sale, as it is much cheaper than buying them brand new. Of course, if you would prefer having a brand new one, you can find them at Walmart and Amazon, but they are more expensive.
Graphing Calculator Tutorials
If you’re not sure how to use your calculator, there are a variety of tutorials available via a quick Google search. Here are some of the best ones:
- Tutorials from Texas Instruments (the people who make the calculators)
- MathBits.com
- GeoGebra
- CPM Student Tutorials
Calculator Testing Policies
EpicEd Calculator Policy Infographic
ACT Calculator Policy
Oklahoma Calculator Policy