User Manual

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Teaching Notes
Aims
The investigation is designed to work from calculated values of powers to a general understanding
written algebraically.
The task also reinforces the need for accuracy when entering calculations.
Resources
Supporting resources are available in our Resource Centre.
Before the lesson
How-To Videos
• Calculation and Reset – Getting Started
• Table – Calculating Values
Learner support material
• Indices and Surds Confidence Builder
During the lesson
• Learner worksheet
Using the fx-CG50
Most of the skills required for this activity are covered in the skills videos listed above.
Additional functions can be added and displayed as new columns on the table.
Dealing with the unexpected
Learners may not realise that they have typed their expressions incorrectly when fractions are involved.
To find the fraction
2
3
all to the power -2, you need
( )
2
2
3
−
The calculator will give the correct answer
without brackets, providing you scroll to the right after entering the fraction before entering the power.
The expressions above are both correct, but the ones below are different calculations that learners may
use in error.