Will my dd need a graphing calculator for Lial's Intermediate Algebra?

[jak of in]

She will be doing the 7th edition of Lial's. If she will need a graphing calculator, would the TI 83 be okay? Or should I get the TI 84? To tell the truth, I really don't know much about these calculators.

Thanks!

jak

[Jann in TX]

Students do not absolutely 'need' a graphing calculator--but it is a great time to begin learning how to use one.

I totally recommend a calculator with multiple view lines. My dd is in the middle of the Intermediate Algebra text and her TI-30XIIS is perfect for what she needs. It cost around $15.

If your student will be going on to higher maths after Intermediate Algebra I'd go ahead and get a graphing calculator. This is a great time to purchase one--look down a few posts and you will find a link where you can get some serious rebates--making total price around $65. You do not want to have to start learning how to key in basic equations while beginning a higher math course--this is the perfect time. I'll be getting one for my dd to use this weekend (lowest prices of the year).

The only difference between the TI-83 and TI-84 is speed. They are so close in price that I suggest getting the TI-84 (Silver edition if you can).

[Heather in Savannah]

Jann, you are always so knowledgeable in the Math field. My dd will be studying Geometry this fall. I remember so little of my highschool math, that I can't recall....does she need a specialty calculator for geometry? I am thinking not?

[Kareni]

I agree with Jann in Texas. My daughter did Lial's Intermediate Algebra without the use of a graphing calculator. She used a scientific calculator in some cases.

After doing Intermediate Algebra, she placed into College Algebra at the community college. For that class she was required to use a graphing calculator (either TI 83 or 84). She learned what she needed to know in about the first month of class as some classtime was devoted to learning to use a graphing calculator.

Regards,
Kareni

[Michelle in MO]

just be aware that using a graphing calculator may be fine for using with Algebra II and Trig., but when it comes to testing (I know this is true for the ACT), graphing calculators are not permitted.

Here's a list (http://www.act.org/caap/sample/calc.html)from the ACT website that shows what types of calculators are permitted and what types are prohibited. HTH!

[Jann in TX]

[QUOTE=Michelle in MO;406953]just be aware that using a graphing calculator may be fine for using with Algebra II and Trig., but when it comes to testing (I know this is true for the ACT), graphing calculators are not permitted.
QUOTE]

The 'standard' graphing ones like TI-83's and TI-84's are allowed. Just not the higher end ones that do everything for you (TI 89's and such).