Just so ya know the rules....

From the Oklahoma SDE website:

instructions for approved Calculator Use on the
Algebra I End-of-Instruction Assessment
(2006-2007)

Calculators used on the Algebra I End-of-Instruction Assessment must meet the following requirements:

· Calculators may be scientific, elementary or basic (four function) calculators

· Calculators must be non-graphing and non-programmable

· Calculators must not have an alpha-numeric keyboard

· Calculators are to be used on Section 3 only

Using a calculator that does not meet the above requirements invalidates the test results and is a violation of test security and test validity. All violations will be reported to the State Superintendent and may result in revocation of teaching and/or administrative certificates.


Outside of that harsh language (that we wouldn't want you to miss!), why did we post this? To remind you that you should start having your students use qualifying calculators now. They need experience with them throughout the year if they're going to use them on the test. They should work problems with and without calculators if they're going to be ready for the Algebra I test.

Shameless plug alert! Topics like these will be covered in our November webcasts. Both November webcasts are dedicated to covering the EOI test blueprints -- how you can use the information in your teaching -- without letting the tests dictate everything you do. Find webcast info at our website: www.otac.info