Mathematics and calculators

Week 6: February 18

MATH 459/ELMA 559 ~ Technology in Elementary and Middle School Mathematics Instruction ~ Spring 2004

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Class meeting schedule and topics

Wednesday, February 18 ~ How calculators do mathematics
Wednesday, February 25 ~ The debate about calculators in the classroom
Wednesday, March 3 ~ Midsemester exam

Homework Assignments

  1. Due Wednesday, February 25

    Required work

    1. Complete a "Calculator Profile" for at least one calculator that is different from the models we profile in class.

    2. Identify at least three buttons or functions on a calculator that you don't already know how to use. Figure out how to use these buttons or functions by trial and error, or by referencing the information card or manual that comes with the calculator, or by referencing an Internet resouce. Construct at least one example to illustrate how each button or function works.

    3. Complete the "Complement Subtraction" homework worksheet.

    4. Complete the "How low can you go?" homework worksheet.

    Optional work

    • Profile other calculators or adding machines.

    • Compose substraction problems to illustrate how calculators subtract using two's complement and ten's complement. Vary the number of digits in the terms. Provide an answer key.

    • Compose problems, activities, or games that use the fraction capabilities of a calculator. Provide an answer key, a list of any materials needed, and detailed instructions.

  2. Due Wednesday, March 3

    Required work

    • To be announced ...

    Optional work

    • To be announced ...

    • Complete the other optional tasks that are given on the assignments.


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