As you embark on your Advanced Placement United States History (APUSH) journey, understanding the College Board's calculator policy is essential for success on exam day. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of permitted calculators, providing clarity on which models are allowed and additional resources to enhance your preparation.
The College Board recognizes the role of technology in enhancing mathematical computations and problem-solving. However, to maintain consistency and fairness among test-takers, specific guidelines govern the use of calculators during the APUSH exam. These guidelines aim to ensure that all students have access to the same tools and opportunities, fostering a level playing field for all.
Before delving into the specifics of permitted calculators, it's crucial to dispel a common misconception: graphing calculators are strictly prohibited on the APUSH exam. This prohibition stems from the College Board's objective to assess historical thinking skills and content knowledge, rather than mathematical prowess. The exam's focus remains on analyzing primary and secondary sources, evaluating historical evidence, and constructing persuasive arguments, tasks that do not require the advanced functions of graphing calculators.
APUSH Exam Calculator
Navigating College Board's Calculator Policy
- Calculators allowed?
- Graphing calculators?: Prohibited
- Scientific calculators?: Permitted
- Memory storage?: Limited
- External devices?: Banned
- Battery requirements?: Fresh, fully functional
- List of permitted models?: Provided by College Board
- Allowed functions?: Basic arithmetic, trigonometric & statistical
Stay updated with College Board's guidelines for calculator usage on the APUSH exam.
Calculators allowed?
When it comes to the APUSH exam, the question of calculator usage is a common concern among students. Let's delve into the College Board's stance on calculators and explore what's permitted on exam day.
-
Yes, calculators are allowed.
The College Board recognizes the value of calculators as tools to enhance mathematical computations and problem-solving. However, their use is subject to specific guidelines to ensure fairness and consistency among test-takers.
-
Graphing calculators are prohibited.
The College Board explicitly prohibits the use of graphing calculators on the APUSH exam. This decision stems from the exam's focus on historical thinking skills and content knowledge, rather than advanced mathematical computations. Graphing calculators provide capabilities that are not necessary for the tasks required on the exam.
-
Scientific calculators are permitted.
Scientific calculators, on the other hand, are permitted for use on the APUSH exam. These calculators offer a range of functions that are appropriate for the types of calculations encountered in the exam, such as basic arithmetic, trigonometric functions, and statistical operations.
-
Memory storage is limited.
Calculators with extensive memory storage capabilities are not allowed on the exam. The College Board aims to prevent the storage of unauthorized materials, such as notes or formulas, which could provide an unfair advantage to certain students.
By adhering to these guidelines, the College Board strives to create a level playing field for all APUSH exam takers, ensuring that their success is determined by their historical knowledge and analytical skills, rather than their access to advanced calculator functions.
Graphing calculators?: Prohibited
The College Board's decision to prohibit graphing calculators on the APUSH exam is rooted in several key considerations:
Focus on historical thinking skills: The APUSH exam is designed to assess students' ability to think critically about historical events, analyze primary and secondary sources, and construct persuasive arguments. These skills are essential for success in college-level history courses and beyond. Graphing calculators, while powerful tools for mathematical calculations, are not necessary for these tasks and may even hinder students' ability to focus on the historical content.
Level playing field: By prohibiting graphing calculators, the College Board aims to create a level playing field for all students, regardless of their access to advanced technology. This ensures that all students are evaluated based on their understanding of historical content and their ability to apply historical thinking skills, rather than their ability to use a particular type of calculator.
Security concerns: Graphing calculators with extensive memory storage capabilities raise security concerns. The College Board wants to prevent the possibility of students storing unauthorized materials, such as notes or formulas, on their calculators, which could give them an unfair advantage. By prohibiting graphing calculators, the College Board can help ensure the integrity and fairness of the exam.
Consistency with other AP exams: The College Board maintains consistency in its calculator policies across all AP exams. Graphing calculators are prohibited on all AP exams except for those that explicitly require them, such as the AP Calculus exams. This consistency helps to ensure that all students are treated fairly and that the exams are comparable across different subjects.
In summary, the College Board's prohibition of graphing calculators on the APUSH exam is intended to promote fairness, maintain the integrity of the exam, and ensure that students are evaluated based on their historical knowledge and thinking skills, rather than their access to advanced technology.
While some students may feel limited by the prohibition of graphing calculators, it's important to remember that the APUSH exam is designed to assess historical thinking skills, not mathematical prowess. By focusing on the historical content and practicing critical thinking skills, students can achieve success on the exam without the use of graphing calculators.
Scientific calculators?: Permitted
The College Board permits the use of scientific calculators on the APUSH exam because they offer a range of functions that are appropriate for the types of calculations encountered in the exam, while still maintaining a level playing field for all students.
-
Basic arithmetic operations:
Scientific calculators can perform basic arithmetic operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, which are essential for solving historical problems involving quantitative data.
-
Trigonometric functions:
Some APUSH exam questions may require students to calculate angles or distances using trigonometric functions, such as sine, cosine, and tangent. Scientific calculators can perform these calculations quickly and accurately.
-
Statistical functions:
Scientific calculators can also perform basic statistical calculations, such as finding the mean, median, and mode of a set of data. This can be useful for analyzing historical data and drawing conclusions from statistical evidence.
-
Limited memory storage:
While scientific calculators have memory storage capabilities, they are limited compared to graphing calculators. This prevents students from storing unauthorized materials, such as notes or formulas, on their calculators, which could give them an unfair advantage.
By allowing scientific calculators with limited memory storage, the College Board strikes a balance between providing students with a useful tool for performing calculations and maintaining the integrity of the exam. Students can use scientific calculators to enhance their problem-solving abilities and demonstrate their understanding of historical content, without having access to advanced functions that are not necessary for the exam.
Memory storage?: Limited
The College Board's decision to limit memory storage on calculators permitted for the APUSH exam is rooted in concerns about academic integrity and fairness. Here are the key reasons behind this limitation:
Preventing unauthorized materials: Calculators with extensive memory storage capabilities can be used to store notes, formulas, or other unauthorized materials. This could give students an unfair advantage by allowing them to access information during the exam that is not available to other students. By limiting memory storage, the College Board helps to ensure that all students are competing on a level playing field.
Maintaining exam security: Limiting memory storage also helps to maintain the security of the exam. Students cannot store copies of the exam or portions of the exam on their calculators, which could potentially be shared with other students or used to create unauthorized study materials.
Encouraging critical thinking: The APUSH exam is designed to assess students' critical thinking skills and their ability to analyze historical evidence and construct arguments. Allowing calculators with unlimited memory storage could tempt students to rely on stored formulas or algorithms to solve problems, rather than engaging in the critical thinking process that the exam is intended to measure.
Consistency with other AP exams: The College Board maintains consistency in its calculator policies across all AP exams. Memory storage is limited on calculators permitted for all AP exams, except for those that explicitly require extensive memory storage, such as the AP Statistics exam. This consistency helps to ensure that all students are treated fairly and that the exams are comparable across different subjects.
By limiting memory storage on calculators permitted for the APUSH exam, the College Board aims to promote fairness, maintain the integrity of the exam, and encourage students to engage in critical thinking and analysis.
Students should be aware of the memory storage limitations and ensure that their calculators comply with the College Board's guidelines. Calculators with excessive memory storage will not be permitted in the exam, and students who attempt to use such calculators may face consequences, including having their exams invalidated.
External devices?: Banned
The College Board prohibits the use of external devices, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smartwatches, on the APUSH exam. This ban is in place to maintain the integrity of the exam and ensure fairness for all students.
- Security concerns: External devices can be used to access unauthorized materials, such as notes, formulas, or copies of the exam. This could give students an unfair advantage and compromise the security of the exam.
- Communication with others: External devices can be used to communicate with other people, including other students, teachers, or family members. This could lead to cheating or collusion, which undermines the validity of the exam results.
- Distraction and disruption: External devices can be a source of distraction and disruption during the exam. Students may be tempted to use their devices to check messages, browse the internet, or play games, which could interfere with their focus on the exam.
- Consistency and fairness: The ban on external devices helps to ensure consistency and fairness in the exam administration. All students are expected to take the exam under the same conditions, without the use of external devices that could provide an unfair advantage.
Students who are found using external devices during the APUSH exam may face serious consequences, including having their exams invalidated and potentially being barred from future AP exams. Therefore, it is crucial for students to adhere to the College Board's policy and refrain from bringing any external devices into the exam room.
Battery requirements?: Fresh, fully functional
The College Board requires students to bring fresh, fully functional batteries for their calculators on the APUSH exam. This requirement is essential to ensure that calculators will operate reliably throughout the exam and that students are not disadvantaged due to battery issues.
Here are the key reasons behind the battery requirements:
Reliability and consistency: Fresh batteries provide a reliable power source for calculators, minimizing the risk of unexpected shutdowns or malfunctions during the exam. This ensures that students can focus on the exam without worrying about their calculators running out of power.
Fairness and equality: By requiring fresh batteries, the College Board ensures that all students have an equal opportunity to complete the exam without being hindered by calculator problems. Students who bring weak or dead batteries may find that their calculators turn off during the exam, putting them at a significant disadvantage.
Avoiding distractions: Dealing with calculator battery issues during the exam can be a distraction and disrupt students' concentration. By bringing fresh batteries, students can eliminate the need to worry about their calculators running out of power and can fully focus on the exam.
Adherence to exam regulations: The College Board's requirement for fresh, fully functional batteries is part of the exam regulations. Students who fail to comply with this requirement may face consequences, such as having their calculators confiscated or even being disqualified from the exam.
Therefore, it is crucial for students to carefully check their calculator batteries before the exam and ensure that they are fresh and fully functional. Bringing a spare set of batteries is also a good idea as a backup in case the primary batteries run out during the exam.
By adhering to the College Board's battery requirements, students can ensure that their calculators will perform reliably throughout the APUSH exam, allowing them to focus on demonstrating their historical knowledge and skills without any technical distractions.
List of permitted models?: Provided by College Board
To ensure consistency and fairness among test-takers, the College Board publishes a list of permitted calculator models that are allowed on the APUSH exam. This list is carefully curated to include scientific calculators that meet the College Board's requirements and are appropriate for the types of calculations encountered in the exam.
- Transparency and accessibility: The College Board's publication of the permitted calculator models provides transparency to students and educators. Students can easily access the list and choose a calculator that meets the requirements, ensuring that they are well-prepared for the exam.
- Level playing field: By providing a specific list of permitted models, the College Board creates a level playing field for all students. All students are aware of the acceptable calculators, and there is no advantage gained by using a more advanced or expensive model.
- Consistency across exams: The College Board maintains consistency in its calculator policies across all AP exams. The list of permitted calculator models is typically the same for all AP exams, except for those that explicitly require different types of calculators.
- Alignment with exam content: The College Board carefully selects permitted calculator models that align with the content and skills tested on the APUSH exam. The calculators on the list have the necessary functions and capabilities to support students in solving historical problems and performing basic mathematical calculations.
Students should consult the College Board's website or their APUSH teacher to obtain the most up-to-date list of permitted calculator models. Using a calculator that is not on the permitted list may result in the calculator being confiscated during the exam, or even disqualification from the exam.
Allowed functions?: Basic arithmetic, trigonometric & statistical
The College Board permits calculators with basic arithmetic, trigonometric, and statistical functions on the APUSH exam. These functions are considered appropriate and sufficient for the types of calculations encountered in the exam.
-
Basic arithmetic:
Calculators with basic arithmetic functions can perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. These functions are essential for solving historical problems involving quantitative data, such as calculating percentages, ratios, and averages.
-
Trigonometric functions:
Trigonometric functions, such as sine, cosine, and tangent, are useful for solving problems involving angles and triangles. These functions may be encountered in questions related to historical maps, navigation, or military strategies.
-
Statistical functions:
Calculators with statistical functions can perform basic statistical calculations, such as finding the mean, median, and mode of a set of data. These functions can be helpful for analyzing historical data and drawing conclusions from statistical evidence.
-
Other allowed functions:
In addition to the basic arithmetic, trigonometric, and statistical functions, some calculators may have other allowed functions, such as finding logarithms, exponents, and square roots. However, it is important to note that graphing functions and other advanced functions are not permitted on the APUSH exam.
By allowing calculators with these specific functions, the College Board aims to provide students with a tool that enhances their problem-solving abilities and enables them to demonstrate their understanding of historical content. At the same time, the limitations on calculator functions ensure that students are not overly reliant on technology and that the exam focuses on historical thinking skills rather than advanced mathematical computations.
FAQ
To ensure a smooth and successful APUSH exam experience, we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to calculators:
Question 1: Are calculators allowed on the APUSH exam?
Answer: Yes, calculators are permitted on the APUSH exam, but with specific restrictions. Graphing calculators are strictly prohibited, while scientific calculators with limited memory storage and basic functions are allowed.
Question 2: What types of calculators are permitted?
Answer: The College Board provides a list of permitted calculator models that meet their requirements. These models typically include scientific calculators with basic arithmetic, trigonometric, and statistical functions.
Question 3: What functions are allowed on the permitted calculators?
Answer: Permitted calculators can perform basic arithmetic operations, trigonometric functions (sine, cosine, tangent), and statistical functions (mean, median, mode). Graphing and other advanced functions are not allowed.
Question 4: What are the battery requirements for calculators?
Answer: Students must bring fresh, fully functional batteries for their calculators. It's advisable to carry a spare set of batteries as a backup in case the primary batteries run out during the exam.
Question 5: Can I store notes or formulas on my calculator?
Answer: No, calculators with extensive memory storage are not permitted. The College Board aims to prevent unauthorized materials, such as notes or formulas, from being stored on calculators, which could provide an unfair advantage.
Question 6: What should I do if my calculator malfunctions during the exam?
Answer: If your calculator malfunctions during the exam, you should immediately raise your hand and notify the exam proctor. They will provide you with instructions on how to proceed. Do not attempt to fix the calculator yourself.
Question 7: Can I use my calculator to solve every problem on the exam?
Answer: While calculators can be useful for certain calculations, they are not necessary for all problems on the APUSH exam. Some questions may require critical thinking and historical analysis, which cannot be solved solely with a calculator.
Closing Paragraph:
We hope these FAQs have addressed your questions about calculator usage on the APUSH exam. Remember, the most important thing is to be familiar with the College Board's calculator policy and to bring an appropriate calculator that meets the specified requirements. Good luck with your APUSH exam preparation!
Now that you have a clear understanding of calculator usage on the APUSH exam, let's move on to some tips for making the most of your calculator during the exam.
Tips
To help you make the most of your calculator during the APUSH exam, here are some practical tips:
Tip 1: Choose the Right Calculator:
Familiarize yourself with the College Board's list of permitted calculator models and select one that meets your needs and is easy for you to use. Make sure it has the necessary functions and that you are comfortable with its layout and操作.
Tip 2: Practice Using Your Calculator:
Don't wait until the day of the exam to start using your calculator. Practice using it regularly in the weeks leading up to the exam. This will help you become proficient in using its various functions and avoid any surprises on exam day.
Tip 3: Understand the Calculator Policy:
Make sure you thoroughly understand the College Board's calculator policy, including the types of calculators allowed, the permitted functions, and the memory storage limitations. Adhering to the policy will prevent any issues during the exam.
Tip 4: Bring Extra Batteries and a Backup Calculator:
Even if your calculator is brand new, it's a good idea to bring a fresh set of batteries as a backup. Additionally, consider bringing a backup calculator in case your primary calculator malfunctions during the exam.
Closing Paragraph:
By following these tips, you can ensure that your calculator is a valuable tool that enhances your performance on the APUSH exam. Remember, the key is to be prepared, practice regularly, and use your calculator wisely during the exam.
Now that you have a clear understanding of calculator usage and some practical tips for maximizing its effectiveness, let's move on to some final thoughts and advice to help you succeed on the APUSH exam.
Conclusion
As you embark on your APUSH exam journey, remember that a calculator can be a valuable tool to enhance your problem-solving abilities and demonstrate your understanding of historical content. However, it's essential to use your calculator wisely and in accordance with the College Board's guidelines.
Summary of Main Points:
- Calculator Usage: Calculators are permitted on the APUSH exam, but graphing calculators are strictly prohibited. Scientific calculators with limited memory storage and basic functions are allowed.
- Permitted Functions: Permitted calculators can perform basic arithmetic operations, trigonometric functions, and statistical functions. Graphing and other advanced functions are not allowed.
- Calculator Policy: Familiarize yourself with the College Board's calculator policy to ensure you have an appropriate calculator and understand the usage guidelines.
- Exam Day Preparation: Bring fresh batteries and consider bringing a backup calculator. Practice using your calculator regularly and make sure you are comfortable with its functions.
- Calculator as a Tool: Use your calculator as a tool to enhance your problem-solving abilities, but don't rely on it solely. Some questions require critical thinking and historical analysis that cannot be solved solely with a calculator.
Closing Message:
The APUSH exam is a challenging but rewarding experience. With careful preparation, effective use of your calculator, and a focus on developing your historical thinking skills, you can achieve success on exam day. Good luck and best wishes for a successful APUSH exam!