Abstract:
Scientific graphing technology offers teaching and learning aids currently utilized mainly by
teachers and students in upper-level mathematics classes. In this study, a class of ninth-grade
Algebra I students possessing only basic scientific calculator experience used scientific graphing
calculators to aid in graphing linear equations and inequalities. Results from the study confirmed
that the students' use of graphing calculators positively influenced their ability to graph and
identify graphs of linear equations. Students who scored higher on the pretest, indicating
stronger initial graphing skills, tended to use the calculator to check their work. Students who
did not score well on the pretest tended to use the calculator to graph the equation and then copy
the results onto their graph paper. Overall, students confirmed that they were more comfortable
with using the graphing calculator after the intervention. Previous studies had shown that
graphing calculators were viable tools for higher level mathematics classes in high school. This
study presented evidence that this tool was just as beneficial for ninth-graders taking Algebra I.