PSSA Calculator Policy Checker

Determine if a calculator is permitted for a specific student, grade, and subject on the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA).

Check Eligibility

Can Fourth Graders Use a TI-15 Calculator on the PSSA?

Yes, a fourth-grade student **can use a TI-15 calculator on certain sections of the PSSA**, specifically the Mathematics and Science tests. However, there are important rules and exceptions. The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) sets a clear calculator policy for state assessments that dictates when and what type of calculators are permitted. The TI-15, being a basic four-function calculator without advanced features, is generally an acceptable model.

The core question of whether a calculator is allowed depends on two main factors: the **subject of the test** and the **specific section** within that test. For fourth graders, the PSSA is administered in Mathematics, Science, and English Language Arts (ELA). Calculators are explicitly forbidden on the ELA test. For the Mathematics test, there is a dedicated “non-calculator” section that students must complete first. After that section is finished and collected, students are permitted to use a calculator, like the TI-15, for the remaining parts of the math test. For the Science PSSA, calculators are permitted throughout.

PSSA Calculator Formula and Explanation

While not a mathematical formula, the “calculation” for determining eligibility follows a logical rule set defined by the PDE. This calculator processes these rules based on your inputs.

The logic can be summarized as:

IF (Subject is ELA) THEN Policy = "No"
ELSE IF (Grade is 3) THEN Policy = "No"
ELSE IF (Subject is Math OR Subject is Science) THEN Policy = "Yes, on approved sections"
IF (Has IEP/504 Accommodation) THEN Policy can be "Yes" even in "No" scenarios, with specific device approval.

Variables in the Policy Decision

Factors determining calculator use on the PSSA.

Variable	Meaning	Unit / Type	Typical Range
Grade Level	The student’s current grade	Numeric	3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Test Subject	The specific PSSA assessment	Categorical	Mathematics, Science, ELA
Test Section	A specific part of the Mathematics test	Categorical	Calculator or Non-Calculator
IEP/504 Plan	A documented educational accommodation	Boolean (Yes/No)	True or False

Practical Examples

Example 1: Standard 4th Grader in Math

• Inputs: Grade 4, Mathematics, No Accommodation
• Result: YES (Conditional)
• Explanation: The student can use a TI-15 calculator, but only after completing the initial non-calculator section of the PSSA Mathematics test.

Example 2: 8th Grader in Science

• Inputs: Grade 8, Science, No Accommodation
• Result: YES
• Explanation: Calculators are permitted on the PSSA Science test for all applicable grades (4 and 8). The TI-15 is an acceptable device.

Example 3: 4th Grader in ELA

• Inputs: Grade 4, ELA, No Accommodation
• Result: NO
• Explanation: Calculators are not permitted on the English Language Arts (ELA) portion of the PSSA for any grade. Check our guide on test preparation for more details.

How to Use This PSSA Calculator Policy Checker

This tool simplifies the official state guidelines into a quick and easy-to-understand answer. Follow these steps:

1. Select Grade Level: Choose the student’s grade from the dropdown menu. The policy for whether fourth graders can use a ti-15 calculator on the pssa is different from other grades.
2. Select Test Subject: Choose Mathematics, Science, or ELA. This is the most critical factor.
3. Indicate Accommodations: Check the box if the student has a documented need for a specific calculator (e.g., a talking calculator) in their Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan.
4. Review the Result: The tool will instantly provide a “Yes,” “No,” or “Yes, Conditionally” answer with a detailed explanation based on the official Pennsylvania Department of Education policy.

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Use

Understanding the nuances of the policy helps ensure every student is properly prepared. Consider these factors:

• Calculator Type: The TI-15 is perfect because it’s basic. Prohibited devices include those with internet, Wi-Fi, CAS (Computer Algebra Systems), QWERTY keyboards, or non-factory installed programs. See this list of prohibited features.
• Memory Clearing: School staff (Test Administrators) are required to clear the memory of all calculators before and after each testing session. Students cannot do this themselves.
• Test Administration: The sequence is strict for the math test. All students must complete the “no calculator” section first. Those test booklets are collected before the “calculator” section is distributed.
• Grade Level: Grade 3 is a strict “no calculator” year for all subjects. Grades 4-8 have conditional use.
• Subject Matter: The need for calculation is subject-specific. Math and Science require it; ELA does not. The rules for using a ti-15 calculator for the pssa are strictest for math.
• Accommodations: A student with an IEP can sometimes use a special calculator even when others cannot, but this must be pre-approved and documented. Explore accommodation guidelines for more info.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is a TI-15 specifically approved for the PSSA?

The state does not approve specific models. Instead, it prohibits features. Since the TI-15 has no prohibited features, it is an allowed calculator for the sections where calculators are permitted.

2. What happens if a student uses a calculator on the wrong section?

This would be a testing violation. The student’s test could be invalidated, and the school would have to file a report with the state.

3. Can my fourth grader use a graphing calculator?

As long as the graphing calculator does not have a Computer Algebra System (CAS) and all non-factory programs are deleted, it would be technically allowed. However, a TI-15 is more than sufficient and less risky. Learn about our calculator comparison tool.

4. Why is there a non-calculator section for the math test?

This section assesses a student’s fundamental arithmetic and number sense skills without the aid of a machine, ensuring they have mastered core concepts.

5. Does the school provide a calculator?

Many schools provide compliant calculators (like the TI-15) to ensure equity and policy adherence, but this varies by district. It’s best to check with your child’s teacher or school.

6. Is the policy about whether fourth graders can use a ti-15 calculator on the pssa the same every year?

The Pennsylvania Department of Education can update the policy. While the core rules have been stable, it’s always good to check the latest guidelines for the current school year.

7. What about the Science PSSA for fourth graders?

Calculators are permitted for the entire Science PSSA test for grades 4 and 8.

8. Can a student share a calculator with a friend?

No. The policy explicitly forbids the sharing of calculators during a test session.

Related Tools and Internal Resources

Explore more of our resources to help you prepare for assessments and understand educational tools:

• PSSA Test Preparation Strategies: A guide to studying effectively for the PSSA.
• Understanding Your Child’s PSSA Score Report: Learn how to interpret the results.
• Graphing Calculator vs. Scientific Calculator: Which one is right for middle and high school?
• IEP and 504 Plan Accommodation Guide: A deeper look at available testing supports.