BulleTIn Board Blog | Texas Instruments

6 Great Tips for Navigating the First Week of School

Posted 07/12/2024 by by Jessica Kohout @MrsKohout

A good first week can make a huge difference in a classroom environment for the whole year. Here are six ways to help ensure that this school year starts off on the right foot.

A Prime Summer Reading List Math Teachers Will Absolutely Love

Posted 06/05/2024 by TI Staff and TI Teacher Community

Keep summer brain rot at bay with this sizzling summer reading list for teachers! Dive into engaging teaching practices, captivating histories and intriguing mysteries for both math and science enthusiasts. Check out our newest additions to the list: fun math reads for students!

Top 6 TI-84 Family Calculator Functions You Need To Know for AP® Statistics

Posted 04/08/2024 by Curtis Brown (@cbmathguy)

Grab your TI-84 Plus CE graphing calculator and keep it handy as we walk you through the most important functions students should know how to use for the AP^® Statistics exam.

Math in Motion — 5 Educators Using Robotics To Teach Math

Posted 04/02/2024 by Harshal S. Chhaya (@hschhaya)

The mission of National Robotics Week is simple: to inspire students in robotics and STEM-related fields and to share the excitement of robotics with audiences of all ages. Learn how five educators are using the TI-Innovator™ Rover to teach math.

Bloom With These 5 Springtime Math Resources

Posted 03/18/2024 by TI Staff

Sunshine, flowers, bugs and showers — spring is here! With all the fun going on outside, here are some helpful, spring-themed teacher resources to keep math students focused on what's going on inside the classroom.

Celebrate Pi Day With Activities For Unlimited Fun

Posted 02/28/2024 by TI Staff

Any day is a better day with a little π (pi). Let’s celebrate Pi Day with some fun and meaningful activities that show students how the mathematical constant shows up in real life.

A Math Teacher's Guide to Valentine's Day Fun

Posted 02/06/2024 by TI Staff

Are you looking for Valentine’s Day math activities and fun ideas to decorate your classroom? Explore free and easy ways to show off your love of math while getting your students excited to learn.

Science Activities for Heart Health Month

Posted 02/02/2024 by Erica Schiller, @ericaschiller

With American Heart Month and Valentine’s Day just around the corner, what better time to explore cardiovascular health with your students? Here are several science lessons that will get your heart pumping!

The Heartbeat of STEM

Posted 01/30/2024 by Jessica Kohout, @MrsKohout

It’s the stimulating, heart-pounding STEM project that will get your students excited about Python programming. Check out this free activity that helps them learn the basics of coding while exploring the function and structure of the human heart.

TI Codes Contest: Winning Tips for First-Timers

Posted 01/24/2024 by Erick Archer, TI Science Specialist

Are you or your students interested in entering the TI Codes Contest for the first time? Get beginner tips and advice for help getting started.

Helpful AP® Precalculus resources teachers will love

Posted 01/03/2024 by Vicki Carter, T³™ National Instructor (@vickimcarter)

This 2023–2024 school year, the AP^® Precalculus course became a reality for both teachers and students. Let’s look at some resources and technology tips to help students — and teachers — find success.

12 Days of Fun Holiday Math Activities

Posted 11/17/2023 by TI Staff

Explore these 12 holiday-themed math activities for students that will fill the days before the holiday break with joy and learning.

What’s the Difference Between a 3% Fee and a 1% Fee? Over a Million Dollars!

Posted 11/10/2023 by Erick Archer, Market Strategy Manager at Texas Instruments

“My main purpose of making this offer is to get this knowledge taught in high schools. They need this!” TI is helping to address retired Air Force Major Harold Peter’s desire to help students understand saving for retirement.

TI Graphing Calculators + Vernier Go Direct® Sensors = A Match Made in STEM!

Posted 10/27/2023 by Erick Archer, Market Strategy Manager, Texas Instruments

What do science students get when teachers connect Vernier Go Direct^® sensors with TI’s Python-capable graphing calculators? An easy-to-use, portable and wireless data collection system that gets them more engaged in their learning!

3 Creepy and Cool Science Activities for Halloween

Posted 10/13/2023 by TI Staff

Halloween is creeping closer! Now is the best time to try out these spooky fun Halloween science activities to get your students engaged in their learning and thinking like scientists.

Fall-Tastic Ideas To Enrich Your Classroom This Season

Posted 10/04/2023 by TI Staff

With the changing of the seasons, it’s that time of the year for harvest-themed decor, engaging student activities and delightful DIY ideas that infuse your classroom with touches of autumn.

Aha! Activity: Get Students Excited About Linear Equations

Posted 09/19/2023 by Brad Posnanski, @POSitive_MATH

Find out how a high school math teacher tried a new “musical” approach to teaching linear functions that his students love. Brad Posnanski walks us through a hands-on lesson for algebra students: making a digital slide whistle. His story kicks off a new blog series where educators share their favorite “Aha! activities” to try in your own classroom.

Make Plans To Attend a Great 2023 Virtual T³IC

Posted 09/15/2023 by TI Staff

Join us Sept. 30, 2023, at 9 a.m. Central for a free virtual teacher conference. The sessions will help enhance your teaching and show you new ways to use TI technology to engage students.

5 Ways to Spruce Up Your Classroom for Back to School

Posted 08/25/2023 by TI Staff

Welcome students back to school with free classroom decorations you and your students will love. We’ve rounded up the top five favorites that are sure to be a hit.

Day of the Dog: Which Dog Is Roundest?

Posted 08/18/2023 by Corey Boby and Tracy Watson, T³™ National Instructors

Who doesn’t love dogs? In fact, did you know there is a day devoted to celebrating “man’s best friend” — International Dog Day? Check out this activity to use in your classroom with students to bring a little doggie fun to math class.

Women Who Code: A TI Intern’s Fascinating STEM Journey

Posted 08/16/2023 by TI Staff

Discover how a TI intern’s STEM journey has taken her from not being exposed to coding at all in high school to now majoring in computer engineering. Learn about the barriers she’s had to overcome as well as the benefits she’s learned about using a calculator to code.

6 Sensational TI Resources to Jump-Start Your School Year

Posted 08/11/2023 by Cara Kugler, Instructional Content Manager, TI

Summer may be coming to a close, but TI can help ease the back-to-school season with many resources to get you and your students up to speed, no matter what calculator they are using. Let’s take a look at six favorite TI resources to get your year started off right.

3 Back-to-School Math Activities to Reenergize Your Students

Posted 08/11/2023 by TI Staff

Make planning for back to school easier with these three math activities created to get students back in the spirit of learning after the long summer break.

A New School Year — A New You(Tube)!

Posted 08/04/2023 by TI Staff

Just in time for the new school year, the TI YouTube channel is taking on a new look with great new content for teachers and students.

Calculators, Chaos and the Sheriff of Order: A Wild West Math Tale

Posted 07/28/2023 by John LaMaster (@JohnLaMaster)

Every Western movie has a customary saloon scene where a bar fight breaks out, typically over something inconsequential. But just imagine if someone had 6/2(2+1)=1 written on a bar napkin. Now as they say in the movies, “them’s fightin’ words!”

Fans Love These 5 Features of the TI-84 Plus CE Graphing Calculator

Posted 07/18/2023 by TI Staff

The popular TI-84 Plus CE graphing calculator has tons of features teachers love to use. Check out these five features fans love and how to use them.

Stars, Stripes and Sparkles! Try These 3 Coding Activities for July Fourth Fun

Posted 06/26/2023 by TI Staff

Celebrate the fun and freedom of coding with these three patriotic-themed coding activities and challenges! Discover the ease of Python coding with our TI Codes modules and fun of experimental coding.

Investigating Inverse Functions With the TI-84 Plus CE Graphing Calculator

Posted 06/09/2023 by Scott Knapp, Math Educator, T³™ Regional Instructor

Typically, when teaching math lessons, we teach skills first and then present applications. However, when teaching inverse functions, I prefer to start the lesson by introducing an application of inverse functions as a means of teaching the purpose and skill of finding inverse functions. Learn about this strategy, along with a collection of helpful videos from TI that highlight teaching math topics using the TI-84 Plus CE.

An Atomic Summer Reading List for Math Teachers

Posted 06/02/2023 by TI Staff

From “Rocket Girls” to “Atomic Habits,” this summer reading list is a treasure trove of explosive thinking! Explore the science of the mind and learning, the strange stories of the periodic table, and the impact of women in math on the world as we know it.

Get Energized for the New School Year With T³™ Professional Learning

Posted 05/19/2023 by Kevin Spry and Erica Schiller

Summer break is an important time for teachers to recharge and also a time when educators can take the opportunity of flexible schedules to participate in a range of professional learning events. See what TI is offering this summer.

Summer of STEM: 4 Engaging Solutions To Keep Your Students Learning All Summer Long

Posted 05/15/2023 by Cara Kugler, Instructional Content Manager, Texas Instruments

Are you looking for engaging STEM opportunities to keep students learning over the summer? Do we have a list of ideas for you!

How To Avoid 5 Common Grant Writing Mistakes

Posted 05/12/2023 by Jennifer Brewer Cezar, Grant Partnership Consultant

Many factors go into writing a successful grant proposal. Here’s tips on how to avoid the five most common grant writing mistakes.

Earth Day Engineering: Mr. Trash Wheel and More Classroom-Ready Activities To Use With Your Students

Posted 04/17/2023 by Jessica Kohout (@MrsKohout)

On this Earth Day, get your students problem-solving on real-world environmental issues.

5 Study Tips from a Student #StudyGrammer

Posted 04/06/2023 by TI Staff

It’s one thing to know you have to study, but understanding how to study effectively and efficiently is a whole different matter. High school student Sophia from @girlmeetsdesk created a popular studygram to help her fellow students do just that.

Math in Motion — 5 Educators Using Robotics To Teach Math

Posted 04/04/2023 by Harshal S. Chhaya (@hschhaya)

The mission of National Robotics Week is simple: to inspire students in robotics and STEM-related fields and to share the excitement of robotics with audiences of all ages. Learn how five educators are using the TI-Innovator™ Rover to teach math.

Are You and Your Students Ready for the IB® Exams?

Posted 03/31/2023 by Dan Wilkie

Check out some tips and tricks from an IB^® teacher and examiner, and learn more about the free resources TI offers to help your students be ready for the IB^® exams.

Why Buy a Graphing Calculator?

Posted 03/30/2023 by TI Staff

Why a graphing calculator? It’s a durable, long-lasting tool used for learning and understanding math and science better. Discover more about the long-term value students get from the one-time purchase of a TI graphing calculator.

Top Tips From a Science Teacher for Taking AP® Exams in 2023

Posted 03/24/2023 by Jessica Kohout, former AP® Biology teacher

AP^® testing is getting back to normal this year by only allowing paper and pencil exams. Get tips from a science teacher on preparing your students for the big day.

5 Fresh Spring Ideas for Your Classroom

Posted 03/15/2023 by Mark Watson

Spring is here! We’ve put together a collection of spring-themed resources with fresh ideas to help you spruce up your classroom, including classroom decorations, student activities, teacher tips and more.

3.1415… Ways to Celebrate Pi Day

Posted 03/10/2023 by TI Staff

Celebrate pi day using these fun math activities your students are sure to love. It’s as easy as 3.1415….

5 Teacher Tips for Classroom Management

Posted 02/24/2023 by Mark Watson

Our teacher community shares their classroom management tips and tricks. Here are the top five approaches (with a few unique styles and techniques) they shared for managing a math classroom.

Beyond the Right Answer: Assessing Student Thinking

Posted 02/17/2023 by Sherri Abel (@sherriabel1014)

Learn not only how to see beyond the correct answer to reveal students’ thinking — including any misconceptions — but also set the stage to elicit and give appropriate feedback.

A Dozen Expressions of Love for TI-Cares™ Support 💘

Posted 02/10/2023 by TI-Cares™ Customer Support Staff

Love is in the air, and TI customers are in love with the support they receive when they need help. Read on to see what they are saying about their love-ly experiences with the TI-Cares™ customer support and Workshop Loan teams.

Finding the Leader in Yourself: 35 Years of T³™ Mentorship and Community

Posted 01/30/2023 by TI Staff

Stacy Thibodeaux started out as an AP^® Biology teacher who at the time was “just teaching content.” But, a fortuitous experience at the T³IC conference helped her find a mentor, a community and the leader in herself.

Middle School Math Meets Python Game Design

Posted 01/27/2023 by Becky Byer (@bb31415)

How about incorporating some Python coding in the classroom, to achieve enrichment, remediation and grow all students mathematically? My students are always interested in adding some game play to the content! If you’ve never coded before, don’t let that stop you — keep reading.

Top 10 T³™ Webinars From 2022

Posted 01/20/2023 by Erica Schiller

Are you looking for fun, new ways to engage your students using TI technology? Is professional learning one of your 2023 goals? You can get started with this list of the top 10 T³™ Webinars from 2022. Watch on your schedule and at your own pace.

“Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells” … Falling Snow & Python Lists

Posted 12/09/2022 by John Hanna

It’s almost time for winter break. How about some falling snow, karaoke and Python lists to help get you in that winter mood?

TI’s Gift to You! 12 Days of Holiday Math Challenges

Posted 12/02/2022 by Ellen Fishpaw

Our gift to you this holiday season: 12 days of holiday-themed math challenges that will help sprinkle some holiday cheer into your classroom.

Computer Science Comes to Life With TI Technology

Posted 12/02/2022 by Becky Byer (@bb31415)

Check out TI’s new computer science resource site that offers engaging activities and projects to complement any computer science classroom. Take a tour of the new site with one of the educators, Becky Byer, who helped launch the site.

Finding Fibonacci (Fibo) — 6 Examples That May Just Blow Your Mind!

Posted 11/18/2022 by Brad Posnanski

Fibonacci Day is Nov. 23. Join educator Brad Posnanski as he explores some unlikely hiding places for Fibonacci’s sequence, the Golden Ratio.

Have You Heard About a Mixed Six Task?

Posted 11/11/2022 by Vicki Carter (@vickimcarter)

A Mixed Six is basically a mathematical task design using Pointon’s and Sangwin’s question taxonomy to develop thinking skills. Learn how you can use these strategies to make a difference in the actual understanding of mathematical concepts in your classroom.

TI STEM Camps Open New Doors for Students in Rural West Virginia

Posted 11/04/2022 by Harshal S. Chhaya (@hschhaya)

The summer of 2020 was filled with uncertainty. Schools had just wrapped up a year disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and summer programming was not a high priority for most school districts. Read more on how Crystal Bishop extended STEM opportunities to rural WV students.

Intuition, Confidence, Simulation, Calculation: The MonTI Hall Problem and Python on the TI-Nspire™ CX II Graphing Calculator

Posted 10/28/2022 by Steve Phelps (@MathTechCoach)

The Monty Hall problem is a brain teaser, in the form of a probability puzzle, loosely based on an American television game show. Are you ready to “Make a Deal”?

Carving Out Some Halloween Math Fun

Posted 10/21/2022 by TI Staff

Pumpkins, ghosts, cats, zombies and more! Spirits will soar in the math classroom with these fun, spooky-themed ideas and premade activities you can do with TI technology.

How To Celebrate National Chemistry Week With Students

Posted 10/14/2022 by Stacy Thibodeaux @stacythib

Visualization and collection of real-world data is a great way to keep students involved in classroom instruction as well as foster their growth as scientific investigators.

Breast Cancer: When Good DNA Goes Bad

Posted 10/07/2022 by Jeff Lukens, retired biology teacher

Follow the personal cancer ordeal of Kristi Egland, Ph.D., a researcher who was diagnosed with the same type of cancer that she was researching. Read Egland’s story and learn about one woman’s journey from diagnosis to treatment to cure as your students explore the biology behind cancer in the TI STEM Behind Health activity, “Breast Cancer: When Good DNA Goes Bad.”

Students and Teachers Tell All About the TI Codes Contest

Posted 09/30/2022 by Harshal S. Chhaya (@hschhaya)

Read what students and teachers really think of the TI Codes Contest. Spoiler: They love it! We caught up with the 2022 finalists to get their take on their experiences and advice for future participants.

Adding “Class” to Your Python Code

Posted 09/09/2022 by John Hanna

John Hanna is back at it with more tips and tricks to enhance your Python code using “classes.”

Behind the Scenes of T³™ Summer Workshops

Posted 09/02/2022 by Corey Boby, Virtual Arkansas Math Coach and AP® Calculus Teacher

Get a behind-the-scenes look at one of our popular face-to-face T³™ Summer Workshops, from the perspective of the presenters!

Decorate Your Classroom With TI

Posted 08/26/2022 by Mark Watson

With the new school year just around the corner, we offer free (and cute!) resources you can download to help make decorating your classroom one less thing to worry about.

3 Math Resources To Give Your Substitute Teacher

Posted 08/19/2022 by Mark Watson

The teacher may be out, but learning is still in. Explore our collection of video lessons to make sure your students can continue their learning while you’re away from class. All the featured resources here will help make it simpler for your substitute teacher.

7 Books To Beat the Summer Heat

Posted 07/22/2022 by TI Staff

It’s hot outside — time to beat the heat with a shady spot and a good book. We’ve got seven books to help every math teacher keep cool and expand their math teaching chops.

I <3 Math, and Math Is Fun :-)

Posted 07/15/2022 by Brad Posnanski

World Emoji Day is July 17. Check out examples of emojis students can create using Python on their TI-Nspire™ CX II graphing calculators for a fun, and engaging way to introduce coding in your classroom.

Fireworks, Flags and the Fourth of July

Posted 07/01/2022 by John Hanna

Americans honor the Fourth of July with family and friends, cookouts and barbecues, parades, flags and … fireworks! Your calculator can help you get in the patriotic mood! Read more to learn how.

Behind the Scenes of “Room To Grow: A Math Podcast”

Posted 06/17/2022 by Joanie Funderburk, Strategic Alliance Director (@JoanieFun)

Meet the hosts of the popular podcast “Room To Grow” as they share a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into planning the topics and producing the podcast that highlights challenges math teachers face. Learn more about this podcast that captures authentic discussion between former math educators.

Do Python Modules Really Have More Fun?

Posted 06/03/2022 by John Hanna

Discover how using modules in your Python programming on the TI-84 Plus CE Python and TI-Nspire™ CX II graphing calculators can save your time and sanity, too!

Looking for a STEM Solution for Your Camps This Summer?

Posted 05/13/2022 by Stacy Thibodeaux (@stacythib)

If your school or district is considering hosting STEM and coding camps this summer, take a look at Texas Instruments for resources, ideas, downloadable lessons and instructional videos. Plus, learn how to borrow everything you need to do the projects.

Expanding Your Wealth of Knowledge Through Financial Literacy

Posted 04/14/2022 by Lindsay A. Gold, Ph.D. (@lindsayanngold)

April is Financial Literacy Month. Here are three strategies you can use to help your students develop their (and your) financial literacy, along with activity ideas to integrate into your mathematics classroom.

Get Your Promposal Ready — Try Balloons and Buttons

Posted 04/11/2022 by John Hanna

It’s prom season, and it can be hard to keep your students from daydreaming about prom night. How about an activity that will grab their attention while you sneak in some programming skills? Check out several examples for “promposals” on the TI-Nspire™ CX II graphing calculator.

The 7-Year Itch: Can It Be True for IB® Exams Too?

Posted 04/08/2022 by Dan Wilkie

Check out some tips and tricks from an IB^® teacher/moderator/examiner, and learn more about the free resources TI offers to help your students be ready for the IB^® exams.

Monday Night Calculus: Your Questions, Our Answers

Posted 04/07/2022 by Curtis Brown (@cbmathguy)

For the 2021–22 school year, TI has once again teamed up with former AP^® Calculus Chief Reader Steve Kokoska and former Test Development committee member Tom Dick, to provide content sessions for students and teachers. Like last year, the sessions will cover content and questions that teachers have asked for, as well as original, unique problems on topics that come up in the sequence of teaching AP^® Calculus.

Robotics — the Fourth “R” for the 21st Century

Posted 04/01/2022 by Harshal S. Chhaya (@hschhaya)

Robots are not just for robotics classes. They can enhance math, science, history and ELL/ELA classes, increase student confidence with technology and prepare them for 21st century careers.

Automatic Showers Bring May Flowers

Posted 03/18/2022 by Don Gibbs and Ellen Browne (@EllenSBrowne)

Leveraging the “Smart Water with TI-Innovator™” project, our engineering students designed prototypes of autonomous watering systems to be deployed in the Pomfret School aquaponic greenhouse. Meeting a customer need through coding and STEM integration was a perfect way to practice the engineering design cycle and bring on-demand showers to our campus May flowers.

3.1415… Ways to Celebrate Pi Day

Posted 03/10/2022 by TI Staff

Celebrate pi day using these fun math activities your students are sure to love. It’s as easy as 3.1415….

Mission Impossible: A Perfect March Madness® Bracket

Posted 03/04/2022 by Curtis Brown (@cbmathguy)

Every year, millions of people fill out a bracket for the NCAA tournament. If you’re like me, you hear that little voice saying, “What if I became the first person ever to fill out a perfect bracket?” But, do the math, and it’s easy to see the odds are overwhelmingly against it.

Puzzling Students to Push Their Understanding

Posted 02/25/2022 by Timothy Collier (@tcollier314)

Puzzle Problems are a tool to help students learn to communicate their mathematical thinking. Learning to justify collaboratively and individually is the foundation upon which sound reasoning and effective modeling can grow.

TI’s Path to STEM Projects Are Now Available in Python

Posted 02/18/2022 by Erick Archer, Market Strategy Manager

Texas Instruments’ Path to STEM projects provide students stepping stones to learn fundamental concepts in electrical engineering through short hands-on activities using breadboards, wires and electronics components. Students will control the breadboard through coding. This program is designed for beginners, so no experience is necessary.

The Heartbeat of STEM

Posted 02/11/2022 by Jessica Kohout (@MrsKohout)

Are you interested in introducing your students to coding but are not sure how? Read about this heart-pounding STEM project that will get your students excited about programming.

Field Goal vs. Ice Cream: The Ultimate Game Day Matchup

Posted 02/07/2022 by Cara Kugler, Instructional Content Manager, Texas Instruments

Check out these engaging math and science lessons that are certain to bring a win to your classroom and set the stage for the big game coming up.

Math and Python: A Great Valentine’s Day Couple

Posted 02/04/2022 by Adam Pennell (@apennell1)

Valentine’s Day is a time of love, and who doesn’t love math and Python? Have your students use Python to shoot cupid’s arrow through a heart while learning about linear and quadratic functions. Math and Python using TI technology: a match made for Valentine’s Day.

Leveraging CAS To Explore & Teach Mathematics, Part 2

Posted 01/28/2022 by Scott Knapp (@scottknapp)

In the second part of this post, learn even more how CAS can be used to understand the math behind the answers it computes. We will look at examples that demonstrate how CAS benefits teaching and exploring concepts in the algebra II classroom.

Behind the Scenes of TI Codes

Posted 01/21/2022 by John Hanna

Take a peek behind the scenes of TI Codes with the author himself, John Hanna. Learn more about the history and conception of this popular free web resource that is teaching students and teachers to code in TI-Basic and Python on their TI calculators.

Top 10 T³™ Webinars From 2021

Posted 01/14/2022 by Erica Schiller

Is professional learning one of your 2022 goals? We can help you get started with a list of the top 10 most watched T³™ Webinars from 2021. Watch on your schedule and at your own pace. You can knock one out in no time.

How to Host Your Own TI Codes Contest

Posted 01/07/2022 by Alison Steele, Senior Marketing Manager

Want to help your students prepare for this year’s TI Codes Contest? Or just looking for some light, fun STEM competition to bring to your school or group? Check out this guide and download templates to help hold your own mini TI Codes Contest!

Choose Your Own Adventure: 5 Projects To Get Students Coding With Python!

Posted 12/03/2021 by Becky Byer @ bb31415

Computer Science Education Week is just around the corner … are you ready for some Python fun with your students? How do you plan to spend the week? Read on to learn about 5 projects to get students coding with Python.

Leveraging CAS to Explore and Teach Mathematics

Posted 11/19/2021 by Scott Knapp (@scottknapp)

CAS isn't only a tool to help find answers. CAS can be used to understand the math behind the answers it computes. Here, we’ll look at examples that demonstrate how CAS benefits teaching and exploring concepts in the math classroom.

Build It With TI: Science Olympiad

Posted 11/15/2021 by Mike Smith and Erick Archer

Help your Science Olympiad team prepare for changes to the Detector Building event with TI resources.

Have an AWEsum Fibonacci Day!

Posted 11/12/2021 by Ron Lancaster, Associate Professor Emeritus, University of Toronto

Imagine a moment — let’s call it an awe moment — when something took your breath away, caught you off guard or surprised you. Now imagine an encounter with mathematics that left you awestruck. Read on to find out three awe moments to share with your students.

To STEM and Beyond!

Posted 11/01/2021 by Stacy Thibodeaux (@stacythib)

Read all about how one teacher uses TI technology in her STEM/robotics class to engage students, and support computer science and Python coding.

Transformation Graphing — the Families of Functions Modular Video Series to the Rescue!

Posted 10/29/2021 by Tom Reardon

Learn about a free resource from TI that offers over 250 videos to help students understand these essential graphs and their transformations.

Top 3 Halloween-Themed Classroom Activities

Posted 10/22/2021 by Mark Watson

Get students engaged in learning with zombies, maggots and ghostly things. These Halloween-themed activities offer great opportunities to turn class time into good, ghoulish fun — while still delivering instructional, standards-aligned content that’s relevant to your lesson plans.

In Honor of National Chemistry Week, 5 “Organic” Ways to Incorporate TI Technology Into Chemistry Class

Posted 10/15/2021 by Stacy Thibodeaux, Chemistry Teacher

Did you know it’s National Chemistry Week? A community-based program of the American Chemical Society (ACS), National Chemistry Week is a celebration among chemists, chemistry students and chemistry enthusiasts. To commemorate this special week in science, I’m sharing five of my favorite ways to incorporate TI technology into your chemistry classroom.

5 Spook-tacular Ways to Bring the Halloween “Spirits” Into Your Classroom

Posted 10/06/2021 by Ellen Fishpaw (@ellenfishpaw)

Up your Halloween game with some of our favorite fall activities for your math and science classroom.

TI Calculators + Chromebook™ Computers = A Powerful Combo for Math Class

Posted 09/24/2021 by Curtis Brown (@cbmathguy)

Texas Instruments graphing calculators continue to be crucial tools for teaching and learning mathematics. In this post, we’ll explore some ways in which TI graphing calculators and Chromebook™ notebook computers can be used side by side for a great pedagogical experience.

Shifting From Learning Loss to Recovering Learning in the New School Year

Posted 09/02/2021 by Joanie Funderburk, Strategic Alliance Director (@JoanieFun)

Language around “learning loss” has dominated the media, professional education organizations and conversations amongst educators. It makes logical sense to assume that because students were not consistently in classrooms they weren’t learning math as they would have without the pandemic. By shifting our perspectives, we can view each of these challenges as an opportunity for positive change, growth and recovery.

You Can Teach an Old Snake New Tricks: Computer Science on the TI-84 Plus CE Python Graphing Calculator

Posted 08/27/2021 by Becky Byer

When I first heard Python was on the new TI-84 Plus CE Python graphing calculator, I wondered how this is different from programming Python on other platforms. Find out how this can benefit computer science students.

Designing Your Classroom With Purpose

Posted 08/23/2021 by Emily Kraus (@krausmath) (in partnership with @TICalculators)

As I prepare for a new year, the first thing that always pops into my mind is my classroom: the setup, the layout, the functionality, the organization … and, of course, the aesthetic. I want every square inch to serve as a resource or reference for my students.

Going Back to School With Stations

Posted 08/20/2021 by Jamie Miller (@jamiemillermath) (in partnership with @TICalculators)

Utilizing stations the first week of school sets the tone for the school year. It shows your students that your classroom will be filled with student voice, collaboration, engagement and movement.

Tips for Surviving the School Year, Whatever It May Look Like!

Posted 08/13/2021 by Jessica Kohout (@MrsKohout)

Make the most out of this school year with these five tips on surviving in times of uncertainty.

Coding Like a Girl (Scout), and Loving It!

Posted 08/06/2021 by Jennifer Kass

Texas Instruments collaborated with the Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas to create activities for Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors that allow them to earn the Coding for Good, Coding Basics badge. By using a graphing calculator that they may already be familiar with from their math and science classes, this gives girls a friendly introduction to coding.

Going for Gold: 5 Sports-Themed Activities to Engage Your Students

Posted 07/29/2021 by Brad Posnanski (@POSitive_MATH)

On July 23, athletes began to assemble in a much-anticipated worldwide international athletic competition. Educators may find their minds racing on all the rich opportunities for sports-related ideas to engage students in the math and science classroom. Take a look at five activities you can try with your students.

Using Python to Squeeze the Fun Back Into Math

Posted 07/16/2021 by Becky Byer

Python is included in the new TI-84 Plus CE Python graphing calculator! Find out how Python on the handheld gives math teachers a tool that uses coding to teach and explore mathematics.

From Wright Brothers to Ingenuity

Posted 06/30/2021 by Karlheinz Haas (@karl0294)

April 2021 marked the first time in history that an object built on Earth made a powered, controlled flight on another planet. The tiny NASA-built helicopter Ingenuity took off from aptly named Wright Brothers Field. This event provided teachers with a great opportunity to explore topics well within the high school, and even middle school, curriculum, and apply them through such a timely and exciting experience.

Discover Yoga’s Flexibility in Math Class

Posted 06/14/2021 by Curtis Brown (@cbmathguy)

To celebrate International Day of Yoga, we are sharing a few of our favorite ways to add movement into math class. Namaste!

Get Out and #SpreadMathLove

Posted 06/02/2021 by Alison Steele, Senior Marketing Manager

Looking for a fun, safe way to get outside? A new geocaching adventure is the perfect way to explore the outdoors, and help spread math love all around the world.

AP® Statistics: 6 Math Functions You Must Know for the TI-Nspire™ CX Graphing Calculator

Posted 05/04/2021 by Curtis Brown, @cbmathguy

The AP^® Statistics exam requires a deep understanding of the concepts, but also an ability to carry out statistical computations. So what functionalities on your calculator are best to know and use when taking the exam? We highlight six features of the TI-Nspire™ CX family of graphing calculators that are “must-knows” in preparing for success in class and on exams.

Top Tips for Tackling the SAT® with the TI-84 Plus CE

Posted 04/19/2021 by Karen Campe (@KarenCampe)

On the SAT® Exam, calculators are allowed on one of the two math sections. Read on for tips to leverage your TI-84 Plus CE for success on test day!

Monday Night Calculus With Steve Kokoska and Tom Dick

Posted 04/06/2021 by Curtis Brown (@cbmathguy)

This school year, TI has teamed up with former AP® Calculus Chief Reader Steve Kokoska and former Test Development committee member Tom Dick to provide content sessions for students and teachers. The sessions will cover content and questions that teachers have asked for, as well as original, unique, problems on topics that come up in the sequence of teaching the course.

Which TI Calculator for the SAT® and Why?

Posted 04/06/2021 by Jeff McCalla - Jeff McCalla, Math Teacher at St. Mary's Episcopal School, Memphis

You may be surprised to learn that most TI calculators are allowed on the SAT®. Take a brief dive into the history of the calculator and see the latest changes to the math section of the SAT®, all at the same time.

Top Tips From a Math Teacher for Taking the Online AP® Exam

Posted 04/05/2021 by Kim Thomas, AP® test reader

As AP^® tests move online this spring, I’m sharing tips for math teachers, students and parents to prepare for this new format. The digital test includes important changes that students and teachers should become familiar with to be successful on test day.

Celebrate National Robotics Week With Supervised Teardowns

Posted 04/02/2021 by Harshal S. Chhaya, Systems Engineer and Product Manager (@hschhaya)

Supervised teardowns are a tear-ific and engaging way to introduce students to engineering and robotics. Investigating the insides of familiar products sparks curiosity and encourages exploration. This National Robotics Week, encourage your students to learn what’s inside the devices they use on a daily basis.

How To Use the TI-84 Plus Family of Graphing Calculators To Succeed on the ACT®

Posted 04/02/2021 by Jeff McCalla, St. Mary’s Episcopal School Math Teacher (@jmccalla1)

Use your TI-84 Plus CE graphing calculator to uncover the hidden concepts behind tough ACT® questions. I’m sharing my top tips for using your TI calculator as a discovery tool instead of a machine that spits out answers.

AP® Statistics: 6 Math Functions You Must Know for the TI-84 Plus

Posted 04/01/2021 by Curtis Brown

The AP^® Statistics exam requires a deep understanding of the concepts, but also an ability to carry out statistical computations. So what functionalities on your calculator are best to know and use of when taking the exam? We highlight 6 features of the TI-84 Plus CE graphing calculator that are “must-knows” in preparing for success in the class and on the exam.

My Top Takeaways From T³IC to Encourage, Engage and Empower

Posted 03/25/2021 by Ariel J. Taylor, Ed.D., T³™ Regional Instructor (@DrArielJTaylor)

ICYMI: This year’s virtual T³IC was filled with ideas to inspire, motivate and empower. I’m sharing a few of my favorites.

Girl Scouts + Texas Instruments = A Winning Equation

Posted 03/19/2021 by Michelle Grooms, TI Educational Technology Consultant (@Mlg5791)

Did you know that Girl Scout troops can borrow TI technology and even have a TI expert lead girls through a STEM or coding experience to complete a badge? Keep reading to learn the different ways we can support your troop.

Tips for First-Timers Entering the TI Codes Contest

Posted 03/09/2021 by Erick Archer, TI Science Specialist

Not sure if the TI Codes Contest is right for you? Follow these simple tips to get started even if you have little to no coding experience. Spoiler alert: Everyone should enter!

Statistics Office Hours With Expert Daren Starnes

Posted 03/02/2021 by Curtis Brown (@cbmathguy)

This school year, TI has teamed up with author and master teacher, Daren Starnes, to provide live AP^® Statistics sessions via YouTube geared toward teachers and students alike.

A Teacher’s 5 Words That Changed My Life

Posted 03/01/2021 by Tracy Hamilton, Electrical and Computer Engineer

In celebration of International Women’s Day, I am sharing how my ninth grade algebra teacher had a profound impact on my life.

Using TI-Nspire™ Technology To Creatively Solve ACT® Math Problems

Posted 02/22/2021 by Jeff McCalla, St. Mary’s Episcopal School Math Teacher (@jmccalla1)

I’m sharing my favorite tips for using TI-Nspire™ technology to solve problems in non-traditional ways, including relation graphing, the Such That command, and converting radians to degrees.

How a TI Calculator and a Few Special Teachers Added up to an Engineering Career

Posted 02/18/2021 by Erin Patterson, TI Education Technology Software Development Manager

This Engineers Week, meet the TI engineer who started playing with a TI calculator at the age of four and now tests TI calculators for a living.

Straight-A Student Won’t Allow COVID-19 To Take Her Dreams

Posted 02/08/2021 by Ellen Fishpaw (@ellenfishpaw)

This Valentine’s Day, we are celebrating straight-A senior Jasmine Calderon. After losing her father to COVID-19, she is inspiring everyone around her with her love for learning.

Tried-and-True Tips for ACT® Math Test Success

Posted 01/22/2021 by Jeff McCalla, St. Mary’s Episcopal School Math Teacher (@jmccalla1)

In 2021, the ACT^® still hopes to offer an online version of the exam, giving students a choice between a paper and pencil or a digital version. No matter what format you choose, a handheld TI graphing calculator can save you time and energy on the test and help you succeed.

ICYMI: TI’s Top 10 YouTube Videos of 2020

Posted 01/05/2021 by Ellen Fishpaw (@ellenfishpaw)

We are all about saving you time and energy in the classroom, or wherever you are teaching students from during this school year. In that vein, we’ve compiled our top 10 YouTube videos from 2020 to help you and your students continue to grow and flourish in the new year.

The Best of TI’s Science Lessons

Posted 12/15/2020 by Erick Archer

These are my eight favorite science activities from TI’s ScienceNspired.com website.

Celebrate #CSEdWeek Teaching Students to Code With TI

Posted 12/07/2020 by Stacy Thibodeaux (@stacythib)

Classroom instruction time is precious. Coding and programming are valuable skills for students. Let me help you get started with a few time-saving tips and resources.

It's the Most Math-Magical Time of the Year!

Posted 11/25/2020 by Kareya Saleh

It’s the mathiest season of all! And we want to make sure you’re ready to celebrate in style.

Tips for Teachers in the time of COVID-19

Posted 10/30/2020 by Joanie Funderburk (@JoanieFun)

As an educator, you have many changes to navigate this school year. Your school might be shifting between online and in-person learning. You might be adapting to new schedules and different ways of teaching. And add to that, you’re trying to keep up with the needs of your students, your family and your friends. Here are some tips for teaching math in the time of COVID-19.

Top 10 Features of TI-84 Plus for Taking the ACT®

Posted 10/29/2020 by Tom Reardon (@tomreardon3)

Taking the ACT Soon? Here are 10 features on the TI-84 Plus that help students do their best work on the ACT.

TI Codes Contest Winners Revealed

Posted 10/12/2020 by Matt Carson

Texas Instruments teamed up with NASA to host the TI Codes Contest. We asked students to think of ways to improve a process or product on the International Space Station (ISS) using TI technology. Here are the winners.

Best of Chemistry Activities for the Fall Semester

Posted 10/09/2020 by Erick Archer

These are some of the best chemistry activities from TI’s ScienceNspired.com website.

Best of Biology Activities for the Fall Semester

Posted 10/09/2020 by Erick Archer

These are some of the best biology activities from TI’s ScienceNspired.com website.

Best of Physics Activities for the Fall Semester

Posted 10/09/2020 by Erick Archer

These are some of the best physics activities from TI’s ScienceNspired.com website.

Best of Middle Grades Science Activities

Posted 10/09/2020 by Erick Archer

These are some of the best middle grades science activities from TI’s ScienceNspired.com website.

Can You Hear the Ball Bounce?

Posted 09/21/2020 by Karlheinz Haas (@karl0294)

How can we live up to the challenge of making a realistic connection between math and science instruction, using technology while we’re at it? In our new ball bounce activity, we take a new look at an “old” data-collection experiment. Adapted easily to a remote learning environment, teachers and students can share and analyze real-world data — it’s a slam dunk!

7 Reasons Why Python on the TI-Nspire™ CX II Graphing Calculator Is a Must-Have for Your Classroom

Posted 09/15/2020 by Harshal S. Chhaya (@hschhaya)

Experience the power of Python, a popular programming language, on a familiar and powerful platform, the TI-Nspire™ CX II graphing calculator.

Virtual Icebreakers … as Easy as 1-2-3!

Posted 09/04/2020 by Jennifer Kass (@jennkass)

We’re sharing some of our favorite icebreakers that can be done virtually to help teachers build a sense of connection and community with their classes.

A Back to School Like No Other: A Lesson in Resilience

Posted 08/25/2020 by Peter Balyta (@pbalyta)

As students head back to school, whether in the classroom or at the kitchen table, what we are asking of our teachers is nothing short of heroic. Read my thoughts on preparing for a back to school like no other.

Texas Instruments Brings Its Hands-On Coding Workshops to ShadOnline

Posted 08/24/2020 by TI Staff

When a 20-day coding program was forced to pivot to a virtual event, hundreds of students learned to solve coding problems through innovative workshops.

Top 10 Books for Every Teacher’s Summer Reading List

Posted 07/14/2020 by Kevin Spry, Manager, T³™ Professional Development, Texas Instruments, @kspry

We asked some of our favorite educators for the books they turn to for inspiration in their work. Happy reading!

Leveling the Math Playing Field

Posted 05/19/2020 by Joanie Funderburk (@JoanieFun)

The challenge around improving math education is significant and complex. The recent shift to online learning is only widening the educational opportunity gap between affluent and disadvantaged students. In this era of accountability, long-standing inequities are being exposed, and they demand our attention now.

TI’s Response to COVID-19: We Are Here for You

Posted 05/08/2020 by Peter Balyta (@pbalyta)

As more schools transition to remote learning to limit the spread of the coronavirus, our team has been hard at work exploring new resources, and identifying existing ones, that can support students and teachers as they pivot to virtual learning.

Engage Students With This Real-World Earth Day Activity

Posted 04/15/2020 by Tom Reardon (@tomreardon3)

How many plastic straws are used in the U.S. each day? The answer to this and other plastic waste questions will surprise you in this Earth Day lesson that can be used for distance learning.

Flattening the Curve: How You Can Learn to Stay Healthy With STEM

Posted 03/26/2020 by Frederick Fotsch

Everyone is scrambling to figure out how to keep the learning going. Teachers are being asked to create online content and lessons for students to consume at home. In this activity, students learn what it means to “flatten the curve” and understand why certain behaviors will help to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Top 5 Tips for Transitioning to Virtual Teaching

Posted 03/20/2020 by Erica Schiller

As you journey into the world of distance education, get tips on effective teaching strategies from an expert in the field. Plus, join our webinars next Tuesday and Wednesday to ask your questions about transitioning to virtual learning.

The Long Road to My STEM Career

Posted 03/12/2020 by Ada Woo, Ph.D.

I took the long way around in my career path. Literally. I was born in Hong Kong, about 7,500 miles from Iowa City. Growing up, I didn’t have much encouragement to follow a STEM career path. Today, I’m sharing my STEM journey — the whole story — with girls so they can accept the failures and celebrate learning from them.

How a TI Calculator Helped Launch an Engineering Career at TI

Posted 02/05/2020 by Shreya Mandal

Help get into the spirit of EWeek by reading how a TI calculator I“nspire”d an engineering career.

Engage All Students With Questioning Strategies

Posted 01/31/2020 by Emily Kraus

How many times have you heard an administrator, professional development presenter or master teacher say, “100% engagement”? I have lost count. Would you believe me if I said there really is a way to engage all of your students, even the most distracted, most reluctant learner?

ICYMI: Top 10 Webinars of 2019

Posted 01/10/2020 by Erica Schiller

Is professional development one of your 2020 goals? We can help you get started with a list of the top 10 most watched webinars from 2019. These are all free and on-demand. You can knock one out in no time!

A Teacher’s Take on Prioritizing Self-Care for a New Year, New You

Posted 12/31/2019 by Stephanie Yi

Jumpstart your self-care routine for a better you in the new year with three tips from Stephanie Yi, a seventh grade math teacher in Boston.

Why It’s Good to Make Mistakes in Math Class

Posted 12/20/2019 by Kate Bing Coners

If you’re a math teacher, you’re familiar with students anxiously asking to use their calculators. For them, it may feel like a secret weapon that will help them be more successful in math class.

Meet the BAMFFs, Best Awesome Mathematical Friends Forever, Who are Spreading Math Love

Posted 12/19/2019 by Ellen Fishpaw (@ellenfishpaw)

David Olszewski, a math teacher from Canton, Ohio, is the final winner of TI’s Spread the Math Love contest. He was nominated by his BAMFF, Best Awesome Mathematical Friend Forever, a fellow teacher at Perry High School in Canton, Ohio.

Let TI Help You With the New Science Olympiad Detector Building Event

Posted 11/15/2019 by Erick Archer

TI has resources to help your Science Olympiad teams get started with the new Division C Detector Building event.

Meet TI’s STEM Squad and Request a Visit for Your School

Posted 11/08/2019 by Ellen Fishpaw (@ellenfishpaw)

In celebration of National STEM Day, meet TI’s STEM Squad. They are traveling the country teaching kids to code and inspiring innovation.

Meet the Texas Calculus Teacher Who Won the Spread the Math Love Contest and a Trip to MIT

Posted 10/29/2019 by Ellen Fishpaw (@ellenfishpaw)

Read how calculus teacher Walter Meyer, the latest winner of the Spread the Math Love Contest, helps his students realize that the highest levels of math are within their reach.

Senior Drummers Hit a High Note as Winners of Spread the Math Love Contest

Posted 10/14/2019 by Ellen Fishpaw (@ellenfishpaw)

Nate Norwood and Jeffery Gaskin, high school seniors and members of the drumline, are the latest winners in TI’s Spread the Math Love Contest. Read how they inspired their computer science teacher to bring her A-game to the classroom every day.

How to Start the Year on a Math High

Posted 09/30/2019 by Emily Kraus

It is crucial to establish a positive, engaging and welcoming environment for all learners, especially the most reluctant. Here are five ways you can start the year on a math high.

Calculus + Graphing Calculator = More Teachable Moments

Posted 09/26/2019 by Tom Dick, Ph.D., Oregon State University Mathematics Professor

In this first post in a three-part series, Tom Dick, Ph.D., explores when he first experienced those aha teaching moments that come with using a graphing calculator in class. Keep reading to learn how to create these same teachable moments for your students.

Learn to Code with Your TI Graphing Calculator

Posted 09/16/2019 by Kimberly Gonzales, Coding Expert

Learning how to program on your TI graphing calculator in high school can spark a passion that can lead to many amazing career choices. In this post, we are sharing secrets on how to get started coding with your TI calculator.

Let’s Get Back to the Basics

Posted 08/27/2019 by TI Staff

Get back to the basics with a calculator activity that helps teachers assess their students’ understanding of previously learned math concepts.

Get Ready for a Math-Packed School Year

Posted 07/31/2019 by Courtney Ruggles

Get ready for a math-packed school year. Enter for a chance to win a TI-84 Plus CE or TI-Nspire™ CX II graphing calculator of your choice. Prizes are awarded each week through Sept. 6, 2019.

Category	Description	Allow
Analytics and performance cookies	These cookies, including cookies from Google Analytics, allow us to recognize and count the number of visitors on TI sites and see how visitors navigate our sites. This helps us improve the way TI sites work (for example, by making it easier for you to find information on the site).
Advertising and marketing cookies	These cookies enable interest-based advertising on TI sites and third-party websites using information you make available to us when you interact with our sites. Interest-based ads are displayed to you based on cookies linked to your online activities, such as viewing products on our sites. We may also share this information with third parties for these purposes. These cookies help us tailor advertisements to better match your interests, manage the frequency with which you see an advertisement, and understand the effectiveness of our advertising.
Functional cookies	These cookies help identify who you are and store your activity and account information in order to deliver enhanced functionality, including a more personalized and relevant experience on our sites. If you do not allow these cookies, some or all site features and services may not function properly. If you do not allow these cookies, some or all of the site features and services may not function properly.
Social media cookies	These cookies allow identification of users and content connected to online social media, such as Facebook, Twitter and other social media platforms, and help TI improve its social media outreach.
Strictly necessary	These cookies are necessary for the operation of TI sites or to fulfill your requests (for example, to track what items you have placed into your cart on the TI.com, to access secure areas of the TI site, or to manage your configured cookie preferences).	Always On