MATHS

CAS CALCULATORS 

CAS stands for Computer Algebra System and these calculators have the capacity to solve problems symbolically (algebraically) as well as numerically which allows students to engage with highly sophisticated problems that may be beyond their own capacity to solve directly.

The Victorian Curriculum Assessment Authority (VCAA) mathematics study design outlines the technology (calculators) that can be used in Year 12 exams. CAS calculators are approved by the VCAA for use in General Mathematics Examination 1 and 2, Mathematical Methods Examination 2 and Specialist Mathematics Examination 2.

There are a variety different calculators that are approved for use and here at McKinnon we have chosen the Texas Instruments NSPIRE CAS - CXII as we believe it combines a good user interface with processing power and sophistication beyond some of the others in the marketplace.

It should be noted that there is a steep learning curve for students to become truly proficient with the technology. As the adage goes - if you put garbage in, don’t be surprised when you get garbage out. It may surprise some students to learn that the calculators do not think independently, they only do what you tell them to. Therefore, striking the balance between learning how to use them and understanding the underlying concepts is crucial. For this reason, we introduce the CAS in Year 10 mathematics to give students an additional year to develop these skills. 

Who needs to purchase a CAS? - All students undertaking Year 10 Methods, Year 10 General and Year 9 ELMS Maths. Students in Year 10 Foundation Maths require a scientific calculator only. It is critical that every Year 10 student in Methods and General Maths has a calculator to build confidence in and understanding of the technology.

Can they be purchased second-hand? - Yes, they are available second-hand either from various online sites or from a student who has completed Year 12. It is important that you purchase a new battery for any calculator that is more than three years old as they can become unreliable as the battery performance deteriorates.

Where can they be purchased new? - They are available at a variety of retailers and are listed on the booklist along with other required equipment.

However, we have a special arrangement with Haines Educational Suppliers through their Schoolbiz site that will allow families to purchase a calculator at a good discount and have it delivered to school for collection, early in the 2025 school year. Details regarding this offer can be found on Compass news feed.

Finally, we understand that this is a significant investment for parents to make and it should be noted that each year we have around 1500 students who have a CAS calculator in the school that all look the same. When they are mislaid, it is almost impossible for us to determine ownership if they are not clearly labelled in some way. Mr Killeen offers an engraving service each year so they can be indelibly labelled, and I encourage all students to take advantage of this.

Emma Mullane

Key Learning Area Manager - Mathematics