A Note on Scientific Calculators (IGCSE)

Introduction

You will need a scientific calculator, such as a Casio. In the UK suitable models are the fx83, fx85 or fx991EX.

The following video explains how to use it.

WATCH - Using a Scientific Calculator (YouTube) Links to an external site.

Guidance from CAIE

Is my calculator acceptable for use in CAIE examinations?

Due to the sheer number of different calculator models available worldwide, we cannot give specific details of which models or makes of calculators are permitted in our exams.

Where the use of calculators is allowed in examinations, calculators used must not be able to manipulate algebra; they must be purely numerical integration/differentiation. Calculators with any of the following facilities are prohibited, unless specifically stated otherwise in the syllabus:

  • graphic display
  • data banks
  • dictionaries or language translators
  • retrieval or manipulation of text or formulae
  • QWERTY keyboards
  • built-in symbolic algebraic manipulations
  • symbolic differentiation or integration
  • capability of remote communication with other machines.

Cambridge will regard the use of any such calculator as malpractice.