PS 5th grade math:using calculators? Why?

[Annie N]

I just found out that the fifth graders in the local school are using calculators. They don't have homework because not all the students can afford the calculators--that's how necessary they are.

What could they possibly be learning that requires calculators? Esp expensive ones?

I am so bewildered sometimes... :confused:

[GothicGyrl]

We are doing Algebra right now and we don't even use calculators!! I think it is so ridiculous!! No wonder kids are learning how to rely on computers and not their brains--I worked with some who couldn't even count back simple change!

grrrrr... pathetic.

[Beth in Central TX]

It's probably for the basic math facts that were never memorized. I doubt we're talking about top of the calculators; for some parents school supplies are just not high priority items.

Even if higher level math is involved, I can't imagine 5th grade students NEEDING a graphing calculator, which are expensive. Sounds like someone needs an excuse for high priced calculators in their clasroom and no homework to grade. Now I feel cynical, I guess it's time for bed...

[Volty]

Sine/Cosine/Tangent and graphing where we needed the graphing calculators would come later. In fifth grade I remember doing long division by hand. Maybe they need to check their long division (or maybe it's a cop-out I dunno).