Gifted Issues Discussion homepage Forums General Discussion Explore test - calculators

I have looked at the practice questions and I do not see any that require a personal calculator to answer. Does anyone here know whether a calculator should be taken into the exam or not?

I ask because I see that they are allowed and my DD doesn't use one as a rule so I worry that it would be less efficient timewise if she used one because she would not be used to it. On the other hand if there are some calculations that will require it for efficiency then I worry that it would put her at a disadvantage if she does not have one.

Thoughts pro and con?

We are considering her taking the test to be able to get into cool summer camps while the test is still being administered...

Have her bring it since she may not need it or want to use it, its purpose would be as a parachute rather than a crutch.

Our ds was in the same boat--not really used to using one other than simple operations. He brought one with him, but it was a very basic one and I'm not sure he used it. I'll ask him and get back to you.

Thank you Zenscanner and Kadmom!

Also, there are inconsistencies between the website (which covers explore, act, plan and sat) and the materials that we received regarding ID (site said bring it) but materials do not mention it and scratch paper use in some places state it that it will be provided but under 'prohibited behaviors' is says that a test taker could be ejected for its use.

The ID thing is difficult as her pass port is old and while I could get the school to fill out the form on the website I do not want to have the school staff get too excited (positively or negatively) so would prefer not to have to do this...

Any more advice from families that have taken this test?

Hmmm. From what I remember, the only thing ds brought with him was the calculator and no 2 pencils. If there was scratch paper, maybe it was provided at the test site? I'll ask him when he comes home from school...

DD took a basic calculator with her when she took the EXPLORE. We had to show her how to use it, since at that time she had only played with one, but not technically used one. She ended up not using it. I believe they specifically mention somewhere in the paperwork that it can only be a basic operation type calculator.

As for scratch paper - we brought some, but our testing center provided some and I don't think she used that either.

We brought along some snacks and drinks so during the break she could "re-fuel". She kept one water bottle with her in the testing room and we had extra if she needed it.

Mine took the calculator in, forgot he had it with him, and still finished the math test early. Whew.

Snacks definitely a good idea-- it's an hour and a half test, long for an elementary aged kid.

Thanks do you remember what ID you brought along or did you just need the supplied ticket?

We just brought the ticket since DD didn't have any type of ID.