Eight Things You Should Know How to do on Your CAS Calculator

CAS calculators are powerful, sophisticated tools essential for success in Methods, especially for the Year 12 Calculator Active exam.

Key Functions of CAS Calculators

1. Solving Algebraic Equations

• Classpad: Use Solve() located in Keyboard Math 1 Last Box, Third Row.
• TI-Nspire: Use Menu 3. Algebra Solve.
• Procedure: Insert the equation, a comma, the variable to solve for, close with a bracket, and press enter.

2. Specifying Domains

• Useful for trigonometric equations or when specific solutions (like positive ones) are needed.
• Classpad/TI-Nspire: Type the equation using the solve function, insert a vertical line, and specify the domain.
  • Vertical Line on Classpad: Keyboard Math 3 Last Box, Fourth Row.
  • Vertical Line on TI-Nspire: ctrl = Select the line.

3. Defining Functions

• Classpad: Use Interactive Define.
• TI-Nspire: Use Menu 1:Actions 1:Define.
• Saves time by allowing repeated function use with a single variable.

4. Expanding/Factorising Equations

• Classpad:
  • Expand: Interactive Transformation Expand
  • Factorise: Interactive Transformation Factor
• TI-Nspire:
  • Expand: Menu 3.Algebra 3.Expand
  • Factorise: Menu 3.Algebra 2.Factor

5. Graphical Analysis

• Essential for sketching graphs.
• Classpad:
  • Graph: Graph and Table
  • Axis Intercepts: Analysis G-Solve Root or y-intercept
  • Points of Intersection: Analysis G-Solve Intersection
• TI-Nspire:
  • Graph: Graphing window, input function via f1(x)= line.
  • Axis Intercepts: 6. Analyse Graph 1. Zeros
  • Points of Intersection: Menu 6. Analyse Graph 4. Intersection

6. Simplifying Equations

• Classpad: Use Interactive Transformation Simplify. Allows simplifying of algebraic fractions, etc.

7. Converting Between Decimal and Exact Form

• Classpad: Convert via button under settings sign.
• TI-Nspire: Menu offers Convert to Decimal or Approximate to Fraction.

8. Solving Simultaneous Equations

• Classpad: Use Keyboard Math 1 Third Box, Fourth Row.
• TI-Nspire: Use Menu 3. Algebra Solve, and add equations with function button.
• Allows solving for multiple variables, accommodating complex systems of equations.

Spending time familiarizing yourself with these functions can significantly aid performance in Methods. Additional resources are available for further learning and practice.