Can Students Use Calculators on SOL Tests?
An expert guide and policy checker for the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) assessments.
Select the student’s current grade level.
Choose the specific SOL assessment.
What Does “Can Students Use Calculators on SOL” Mean?
The question “can students use calculators on SOL” refers to the official policy set by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) regarding calculator usage during its standardized Standards of Learning (SOL) tests. This policy is not a simple yes or no; it is a nuanced set of rules that varies significantly based on the student’s grade level, the specific subject of the test, and sometimes even the section of the test itself. Understanding this policy is crucial for students, parents, and educators to ensure fair testing conditions and proper preparation. The primary goal is to assess a student’s mathematical reasoning and fluency, with calculators permitted only when the focus shifts to more complex problem-solving.
SOL Calculator Policy Explained
The VDOE’s approach to calculator use is designed to match the learning objectives for each grade level. For online tests, Virginia has largely transitioned to using the integrated Desmos Virginia Calculator, which provides the specific functionality allowed for that test. Hand-held calculators are generally reserved for students with specific accommodations or for paper-based tests.
The “formula” for determining calculator eligibility is a set of conditional rules. Below is a summary of the general policies for Mathematics SOL tests.
| Grade Level/Course | Calculator Type Allowed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Grade 3 | None | Calculators are not permitted. |
| Grades 4-5 | Four-Function Calculator | Available only on specific sections of the test. Cannot have fraction capabilities. |
| Grades 6-8 | Scientific Calculator | The Desmos Virginia Scientific Calculator is provided for online tests. |
| End of Course (Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II) | Graphing Calculator | The Desmos Virginia Graphing Calculator is provided for online tests. |
Practical Examples
Example 1: 4th Grade Student
A 4th-grade student is taking the Mathematics SOL test. On the first section of the test, focused on basic computation, no calculator is available. However, on the second section, which includes multi-step problems, the online testing system (TestNav) will provide access to a four-function Desmos calculator. The student cannot use their own hand-held device.
Example 2: High School Student in Algebra I
A student taking the Algebra I End of Course (EOC) SOL test will have access to the Desmos Virginia Graphing Calculator for the entire duration of the test. This tool is integrated directly into the testing platform, allowing them to graph functions, analyze tables, and perform calculations relevant to the Algebra I curriculum. They are expected to know how to use this tool as part of the assessment.
How to Use This SOL Calculator Policy Checker
This tool simplifies the process of determining if a calculator is allowed for a specific SOL test. Follow these steps:
- Select Grade Level: Choose the student’s grade from the first dropdown menu. This will populate the list of relevant tests.
- Select SOL Test: From the second dropdown, choose the specific test you are curious about (e.g., “Mathematics,” “Science”).
- Check Policy: Click the “Check Policy” button.
- Interpret Results: The result box will appear, color-coded for clarity. It will state whether a calculator is permitted and provide details on the type of calculator and any specific conditions. For more information, check out the Virginia SOL Assessment Program page.
Key Factors That Affect SOL Calculator Use
- Grade Level: This is the most significant factor. Calculator access and functionality increase with grade level, from none in early elementary to graphing calculators in high school.
- Test Subject: Calculator policies are most relevant for Mathematics SOL tests. Science tests for certain grades may also permit calculators.
- Online vs. Paper Testing: Most students test online and use the integrated Desmos calculator. Paper-based testers may use approved hand-held models.
- Test Section: For some elementary and middle school tests, the assessment is divided into a non-calculator and a calculator-allowed section.
- Student Accommodations: Students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 plan may have accommodations that allow for the use of a hand-held calculator or other tools, even when they are typically not permitted.
- Calculator Type: The VDOE has strict rules about the functionality of allowed calculators (e.g., four-function, scientific). Hand-held devices must be on the state’s approved list. For more details on approved devices, see the official Mathematics Assessment Resources.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 1. Can a student use their own TI-84 calculator?
- For online tests, no. Students must use the provided Desmos Virginia Calculator. If a student has an accommodation for a hand-held calculator, the TI-84 is an approved model, but its memory must be reset before testing.
- 2. Are calculators allowed on the 3rd-grade math SOL?
- No, calculators are not permitted for the Grade 3 Mathematics SOL test.
- 3. What is the Desmos Virginia Calculator?
- It’s a suite of online calculators (four-function, scientific, and graphing) integrated into the SOL testing software, TestNav. It’s the standard calculator for all online SOL tests.
- 4. Are calculators allowed for science SOL tests?
- Yes, for some. The Grade 5 Science, Grade 8 Science, Biology, and Chemistry SOL tests permit the use of a calculator. An online scientific calculator is typically provided.
- 5. What happens if a student has a calculator accommodation?
- The student’s IEP or 504 team must document the specific need using the VDOE’s Calculator Accommodation Criteria Form. This allows the use of an approved hand-held calculator.
- 6. Can a four-function calculator have a percent key?
- Yes, according to VDOE guidelines, a four-function calculator is allowed to have a square root key and a percent key. It may not, however, have fraction capabilities.
- 7. Do students need to practice with Desmos before the test?
- It is highly recommended. The VDOE provides public access to the Desmos Virginia calculators so students can become familiar with the interface and functions before the test. You can find them on the VDOE website.
- 8. Is the policy the same for the new 2023 Math SOLs?
- The calculator policy is tied to the assessment, not just the standards. While new standards were introduced in 2023, the testing policies remain consistent. Always refer to the latest assessment guidelines from the VDOE. For more on the new standards, see the Mathematics Standards of Learning page.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
Explore these resources for more information on Virginia’s educational standards and assessments.
- SOL Test Administration Guidelines: Understand the full procedures for test day.
- Accommodations for Students with Disabilities: Learn about the criteria and options available for students needing support.
- Desmos Practice Center: Get hands-on experience with the official online calculator.
- Understanding Your SOL Score Report: A guide to interpreting test results.
- VDOE Mathematics Instructional Resources: Find resources aligned with the 2016 and 2023 standards.
- Transition to the 2023 Math SOL: See what’s changing with the new curriculum frameworks.