Graphing Calculators for H2 Math (2026): Models + Exam Mode
Download printable cheat-sheet (CC-BY 4.0)05 Sep 2025, 00:00 Z
TL;DR
Paper 2 expects fluent GC use for graphs, regression and numerical methods; Paper 1 is non‑GC. Pick a stable model, practice workflows weekly, and confirm “Exam Mode” steps well before promos and A‑Levels. Always cross‑check your school’s official approved‑models circular each year.
1 What this page covers (and doesn’t)
- Scope: model families, exam‑mode, daily workflows, and paper‑specific tips
- Not a buying ad; verify with your JC and SEAB’s latest circulars before purchase
2 Approved models (confirm yearly)
- Placeholder: insert the 2026 approved GC list from SEAB/JC circulars
- Typical families: Casio fx‑9750/fx‑9860/fx‑CG series; TI‑84/TI‑84 CE/TI‑Nspire (as permitted)
- Bring the same unit for every mock; update firmware only after confirming with school
3 Exam Mode essentials
- What Exam Mode does: disables programs/notes; locks settings until exit window
- How to enter/verify on your model (school‑verified steps; demo before prelims)
- Battery prep: fresh cells or full charge; carry spare set (if applicable)
Checklist before each major paper
- Enter Exam Mode in front of invigilators when required; ensure indicator light/icon is active.
- Clear stored variables/lists; reset graphing windows; set angle mode (deg most papers).
- Label your calculator with school index sticker; carry spare batteries (if applicable) and an approved scientific backup.
4 Paper‑specific strategy (9758 H2 Mathematics)
- Paper 1 (no GC): algebraic fluency, inequalities, proofs by induction
- Paper 2 (GC): graph sketching, intersections/roots, numerical methods, regression
- Hand‑work first: write the setup; use GC for solve/verify; state rounded answers clearly
Typical Paper 2 tasks that benefit from GC
- Graph behaviour: windowing to reveal turning points/asymptotes; verifying monotonic intervals.
- Equations/roots: bracketing and numerical solve to justify existence/uniqueness.
- Regression: linear, exponential, power fits; interpreting parameters and residuals.
- Numerical methods: table of iterates; fixed‑point vs Newton comparisons (if allowed by school).
5 Weekly workflows to automate
- Graphing: window selection, tracing roots/turning points, param plots
- Solver: simultaneous equations, polynomial roots, iterative methods
- Statistics: lists, regression types, residual plots; interpret coefficients
- Memory hygiene: clear lists/programs per school policy
Practice circuit (25–30 min, twice weekly)
- Load a past Paper 2 function; set a sensible graph window (avoid clipping).
- Identify turning points/roots; cross‑check with hand derivatives where relevant.
- Enter two regression types on the same dataset; compare R² and residual patterns.
- Snapshot your window settings and interpretations in your notes for future reuse.
6 Common pitfalls (and quick checks)
- Degrees vs radians; mode mismatch across subjects
- Decimal places vs significant figures; rounding at the final step
- Hidden state: stored variables/lists; reset protocols before exams
Quick “pre‑paper” 60‑second routine
- Angle: DEG; Display: fix/normal per school guidance; Exponential format readable.
- Lists cleared; Stats diagnostics on (if model permits) for regression checks.
- Graph: standard step size; previous functions cleared to avoid confusion.
7 Internal links and syllabus anchors
- H2 Math syllabus (9758) — https://eclatinstitute.sg/blog/ip-maths-tuition/A-Level-Mathematics-Syllabus-2026-27
- H3 Mathematics (2026) — https://eclatinstitute.sg/blog/ip-maths-tuition/H3-Mathematics-in-A-Level-2026
- Bridging IPY4 → JC1 — https://eclatinstitute.sg/blog/Bridging-the-Gap-From-IP-Year-4-(IPY4)-to-JC1
8 Last‑mile checklist (Prelims → A‑Level)
- Exam‑mode rehearsal done on your actual unit
- Spare batteries; reset and mode checks; school label on device
- Familiarised with invigilator checks and allowed accessories
Further references
- Official SEAB approved calculators list (latest) — https://www.seab.gov.sg/home/examinations/handbooks
- Buying stationery (IP guide; includes approved models note) — https://eclatinstitute.sg/blog/Buying-Stationery-for-Secondary-School-and-Junior-College
