Classroom Context: Calculator Use

As part of the 2009 mathematics assessment, fourth-, eighth-, and twelfth-graders were asked about the frequency with which they use calculators while taking tests or quizzes. The full text of the question, the corresponding percentages, and scale scores of students who responded within each category are shown below.

When you take a math test or quiz, how often do you use a calculator?

A. Never
B. Sometimes
C. Always

Grade 4

Grade 8

Grade 12

Average Scores

Percentage of Students

Approximately two-thirds of fourth-graders reported never using a calculator while taking mathematics tests or quizzes.

percentages, grade 4, frequency of using a calculator during math tests

NOTE: Detail may not sum to totals because of rounding. See complete data.
SOURCE: U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences, National Center for Education Statistics, National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), 2009 Mathematics Assessment.

Browse questionnaires for the NAEP assessments.