GCSE maths calculators: what options do students have?

Key features to look for in a GCSE calculator

Calculation

GCSE calculator features can vary widely, so it’s worth knowing which core functions to expect and which advanced tools could support further learning.
 
Essential maths functions
All Casio scientific calculators provide the core functionality required to explore the key components of the syllabus and answer GCSE maths exam questions. That includes fundamentals such as log, exponential, trigonometric and hyperbolic functions.
 
Calculation functionality and solving equations are areas where the differences between handsets can become clear. Students who have access to a more advanced scientific calculator can extend their learning and prepare for the challenges of A-level maths by experimenting with features such as:
• Complex number calculations
• Numerical calculus
• Polynomial solutions
 
Data functionality
 
Analysis and understanding of data is an area where GCSE maths students need to demonstrate deeper comprehension during exams. Knowing how to use a scientific calculator opens up opportunities for them to explore topics such as standard deviation, regression and quartiles.
 
For instance, in a higher paper statistics question, a student could use the standard deviation functionality on an advanced scientific calculator to help them gain accurate insights from a set of data.

Advanced functions for higher-tier students

In addition to its equation and inequality solving functions, the fx-991CW is the only Casio scientific calculator equipped to perform probability distribution calculations. Students can use this to work out probabilities for binomial, normal and Poisson distributions.

This is an example of how more advanced features on their calculator can introduce students to new types of mathematics and encourage them to make connections between them. Those who want to continue studying maths beyond GCSE will benefit from this way of thinking at A-level.

Working quickly and methodically

The ability to work under timed conditions is clearly a key factor in any candidate’s performance in a GCSE maths exam. It’s vital, therefore, that students can take full advantage of any tool that lets them perform complex calculations quickly and proceed through the steps required to reach the correct answer.

Being accustomed to using a GCSE calculator can also help students work systematically and test out different approaches to the problem they’re facing. This can lead to them displaying their methods and reasoning in their answers, which can be just as important as getting the right final outcome in a maths exam.

Checking answers

Many students will understandably be feeling the pressure in their examinations. The ability to check their answers and gain peace of mind that they’re on the right track can make a big difference to their confidence and general outlook in the exam environment.

This is one of the clearest benefits to be gained from using scientific calculators such as the fx-991CW, which has the capability to check answers to linear equations, quadratics and more.

You can find out more about the differences between the models in the Casio range by doing a calculator comparison.