ABSTRACT
Many students perceive mathematics to be a bunch of numbers that go into formulas to solve problems. More often than not, the problems they are asked to solve are not their problems, nor do the problems come close to anything they are interested in pursuing. Manipulatives are alternative, concrete representations that are conducive to the discovery of more abstract concepts or algorithms. They are valuable when they are introduced as an integral part of a lesson to challenge student thinking. If students are using calculator for simple computations, it might help a student who is weak in the basics to continue processing the algebra, but otherwise this is not an appropriate use of the graphing calculator for students at that level. Research from the American Association for Employment in Education reports that, nationwide, the areas of greatest need in education-related disciplines include teachers and related service personnel in special education, mathematics, and science.
