Back to Main Menu
Why having a scientific calculator with fractions functionality matters
Understanding the full functionality of scientific calculators is essential for success at GCSE and one key area where the right tools help is when working with fractions. Using a scientific calculator with fractions helps make this as simple as possible, as it reduces the amount of manual work required and speeds up the process of finding the right answer.
But what should students be looking for in a scientific calculator with fractions – and what do they need to know to get the most out of their device?
What to look for in a scientific calculator for fractions
Choosing the right scientific calculator makes a real difference to how confidently students handle fractions. With several options available, there are a few key considerations students and parents should keep in mind.
Fraction input and display
How fractions are presented on screen matters. A textbook-style display – as found on the Casio ClassWiz+ range – shows fractions exactly as they appear in books, with the numerator above the denominator. Some calculators use linear inputs and displays that place everything on one line with unfamiliar notation, which is harder to read and easier to mistype, especially under exam pressure.
Built-in fraction functions and simplification
A dedicated fraction key speeds up input, while auto-simplification reduces answers to their lowest terms instantly. The ability to switch between improper fractions and mixed numbers at the press of a key also saves valuable time during exams.
Exam approval and classroom suitability
GCSE exams require calculators that meet strict specifications, ruling out models with symbolic algebra or wireless features. Approved scientific calculators, like those in the Casio ClassWiz+ range, meet these requirements, therefore avoiding any issues on exam day.
Why students need a scientific calculator for fractions
A scientific calculator with fraction functionality offers practical benefits that go well beyond convenience. It supports both performance and understanding, helping students get more from every lesson.
Reduces errors in complex fraction calculations
Multi-step fraction problems involve several stages where small slips can throw off the final answer. A scientific calculator automates these steps, handling common denominators and simplification accurately so students can focus on the method rather than the arithmetic.
Saves time in exams and homework
Working through fractions by hand eats into valuable exam time. A scientific calculator delivers correct answers much more quickly, freeing students to attempt more questions and check their work properly. While they will still need to be sure they show their working, in order to prove to examiners they understand the underlying theory, calculator use can help with areas like routine calculations and checking solutions.
Helps students understand fraction concepts better
Being able to instantly convert between improper fractions, mixed numbers and decimals lets students see the same value in different forms, building a stronger grasp of how fractions truly work.
How to do fraction calculations on a ClassWiz+ scientific calculator
Knowing how to handle fractions confidently on a scientific calculator makes lessons and exams far less stressful. Once students are familiar with the key functions below, they can work through problems more quickly, check their answers with ease and focus on the maths rather than the mechanics.
It can be helpful for teachers to encourage the use of certain devices for consistency in the classroom. When all students are working with the same equipment – or at least with devices from the same range – this makes lessons much easier.
The Casio fx-83GT CW+, fx-85GT CW+ and fx-991CW+ UK are among the most common and well-regarded devices. Here is how to perform essential fraction work on these handsets.
Entering fractions correctly
All Casio ClassWiz+ handsets function consistently when it comes to working with fractions. To enter a fraction on any of these models, do the following:
1. Press the fraction key (which looks like two boxes, one on top of the other) to bring up the template
2. Type the numerator into the top box
3. Press the down arrow to move to the denominator
4. Type the denominator into the bottom box
Adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing fractions
To perform basic arithmetical calculations using fractions on any of the Casio ClassWiz+ range, use the following steps:
1. Enter the first fraction as above
2. Press the right scroll key to exit the fraction
3. Select the relevant operation key (+, -, × or ÷)
4. Press the fraction key again and enter the numerator and denominator
5. Press EXE to display the answer as a fraction
Converting improper fractions and mixed numbers
If greater than one, answers to the above steps given as fractions will by default be shown as improper fractions. To instead display mixed numbers as the default answer format (for example 1 ¼) a a Casio ClassWiz+, take the following steps:
1. Press the SETTINGS key
2. Choose the Calculator Setting option
3. Select Fraction Result
4. Select Mixed Number
5. Press the Back key repeatedly to exit Settings
Using the FORMAT key to switch between fractions and decimals
Finally, to convert an already-calculated answer between an improper fraction and a mixed number or decimal on a ClassWiz+, do the following:
1. To change a fraction to a decimal, simply press the FORMAT key
2. For more options, press SHIFT and FORMAT
3. From the drop-down menu, select your preferred format. Options include decimal and mixed number
Press OK
Scientific vs basic calculator for fractions
The difference between a basic and scientific calculator becomes obvious as soon as fraction questions grow more demanding. Knowing what each can do helps students pick the right tool at the right stage.
Key differences in functionality
Basic pocket calculators or phone apps convert fractions straight into decimals, stripping away the original form and making working harder to follow. They lack fraction keys and cannot simplify or switch between mixed numbers and improper fractions. Scientific calculators handle all of this with ease.
When students should upgrade
The earlier students move to a scientific calculator the better. Introducing one as early as Year 7 builds familiarity well before GCSE, embedding good habits and reducing reliance on decimals.
Ensuring students fully understand how fractions work on a scientific calculator can save a great deal of time and effort in exams. For more information, we have a range of resources available, including tutorial videos, which can be found here.
FAQs
Most scientific calculators support fractions, but functionality varies. Some only display decimal conversions, while higher-level models offer textbook-style display, simplification and conversion between mixed and improper fractions.
On a Casio ClassWiz+ device, enter the fraction, press EXE, then press the FORMAT key. This toggles the answer between its fraction form and its decimal equivalent.
Yes, provided they meet exam board rules, scientific calculators are permitted in exams where calculator use is allowed. All models in the Casio ClassWiz+ range are approved for UK GCSE and A-level exams.
Natural display shows functions such as fractions, powers and roots in the same format as a textbook, as opposed to a single line, making working easier to read and check.
Which calculator is best for GCSE maths?
Casio’s ClassWiz+ range is widely recommended, offering exam approval, intuitive controls and full fraction support. For those using scientific calculators for the first time, the fx-83GT CW+ and fx-85GT CW+ are entry-level scientific models, offering all the functionality needed to cover the full GCSE maths curriculum. The fx-991CW+ UK is more advanced, with features like equation solving making it a good option for higher-tier students planning to move on to A-level maths
Blog
- Scientific calculators
- Graphing technology
- Exams
- Curriculum
- Classroom
- Students
