New Graphing Calculator Focuses on Math and Science Achievement

(ARA) - As the new school year approaches, parents want to give their teens every advantage, including the very latest tools to get ahead in math and science.

This year, the cool tool for back-to-school is the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition graphing calculator. Available just in time for the new school year, it is designed with features and benefits for today's students.

Developed with feedback from teachers, the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition graphing calculator makes learning middle- and high-school math and science more dynamic and helps students better understand subjects including algebra, geometry, pre-calculus, biology, chemistry and physics.

The graphing calculator comes with 30 preloaded handheld software applications (Apps) for a variety of math and science subjects, as well as the periodic table, spreadsheets, study cards, and an organizer. Included are many of the most popular Apps used in today's classrooms, such as Cabri Jr., Topics in Algebra, Fundamental Topics in Science, and Science Tools. These Apps make learning math and science fun while helping students delve deeper into complex topics, visualize concepts, and quickly and easily manipulate equations to identify relationships and patterns.

Lisa Suarez-Caraballo, eighth grade mathematics teacher at Luis Munoz Marin Middle School in Cleveland, Ohio, comments, "TI has made relationships with teachers and classrooms a priority in developing its products -- and the TI-84 Plus Silver Edition shows it. The applications teach concepts using animation to hold the student's attention and enhance retention. Students also look forward to solving the lesson-enhancing quizzes at the end of each lesson."

Students will love the graphing calculator for its cool new look and sleek design, which they can personalize with colorful, interchangeable faceplates. Students can also download free start-up screens and other programs from the TI website, or they can program their own.

A built-in USB port makes it easier and faster than ever before for students to transfer data from the graphing calculator to the computer and between graphing calculators, as well as collect field data for science classes. The cable also connects students' graphing calculators to presentation equipment already used in many of today's classrooms, which enables students to show their work to the class and facilitates collaborative learning.

The TI-84 Plus Silver Edition is permitted or required on the SAT Reasoning Test, SAT Subject Tests -- Math Levels 1 & 2, AP Chemistry, Physics, Statistics, and Calculus exams, and many statewide assessment tests, and is ideal for Algebra I/II, Trigonometry, Geometry, Precalculus, Statistics, Biology, Physics and Chemistry. StudyCards files, or electronic flash card files, containing sample questions from the AP Biology Exam can be downloaded from AP Central to the graphing calculator.

The TI-84 Plus Silver Edition comes packaged with a "cool" silver faceplate, USB cable and 30 preloaded software applications. With a fully upgradeable operating system and room for more Apps to expand the usefulness, it is a great value that helps parents protect their investment. The device is shipping to mass merchandisers and office supply stores nationwide. For more information, go to www.education.ti.com.

Courtesy of ARA Content