STEM education challenges students to think critically, work with real data and apply concepts in practical ways. A reliable calculator helps take that thinking further. It gives students the tools to test ideas, make sense of numbers and stay focused on the task at hand.
CASIO calculators are built for this kind of work. Across STEM education, they support classroom activities with accessible functions, familiar design and approval for use in Australian exams. For teachers, that means less time explaining menus and more time teaching what matters.
Bringing science to life: experiments and data
CASIO calculators support hands-on learning during science experiments by helping students move from observation to analysis. They might calculate pH values during titrations, analyse temperature changes across materials or explore energy transfer through ecosystems. Built-in functions like averages, logarithms and percentages allow students to process data quickly and stay focused on the science — not the setup.
For more advanced topics, graphing models like the fx-1AU GRAPH open up opportunities to model real-world systems. Students can chart velocity changes, apply regression tools and compare their outcomes to expected results. These features bring abstract concepts into clearer focus and help teachers build stronger links between theory and application — an essential part of effective STEM education.
Enhancing mathematical thinking: activities for all levels
Mathematics remains the heart of STEM education, as it gives students the skills they need to work with patterns, formulas and real-world problems across other subjects. CASIO calculators can support a wide range of maths activities, from Year 7 through to Year 12 Extension 2.
For junior students:
- fx-8200 AU models can reinforce concepts like order of operations, fractions and algebra.
- Teachers can introduce real-life scenarios (e.g. budgeting, time calculations or measurement conversions) where students use calculators to explore answers and verify reasoning.
For senior students:
- CAS-enabled calculators like the fx-CP400 help tackle calculus, matrices and complex numbers.
- Students can explore graphing functions, test different equations and observe immediate changes — encouraging experimentation and deep understanding.
Maths activities also become collaborative: Group tasks involving graph interpretation, financial modelling or geometric problem-solving benefit from shared calculator-based solutions and reasoning.
Supporting engineering projects in the classroom
Engineering concepts are increasingly explored through project-based learning. CASIO’s graphing and programmable calculators allow students to engage in activities that involve:
- Constructing and testing formulas
- Performing unit conversions across systems (e.g. metric to imperial)
- Analysing design parameters
In a typical Year 10 STEM project — such as designing a bridge or testing materials — students can use CASIO calculators to:
- Calculate stress or load values
- Graph material fatigue over time
- Run iterative calculations as part of design trials
This hands-on learning mirrors real-world engineering workflows and encourages students to think like engineers while using accessible tools.
Technology in the hands of learners
While calculators might not be the first tool that comes to mind in a tech-focused STEM education class, CASIO models like the fx-1AU GRAPH are more than basic devices. High-resolution colour displays and the ability to graph 3D functions allow students to visualise abstract concepts and bring digital fluency into lessons.
Teachers can also connect CASIO calculators to classroom projectors for demonstration, or integrate CASIO’s free online emulators and training videos into lesson delivery. This hybrid approach bridges the gap between physical tools and digital resources — supporting differentiated learning across abilities and age groups.
Lesson plan examples across year levels
The best way to get more from CASIO calculators is by using them in context. Below are a few example activities that show how they can support STEM education across different stages of secondary school.
Years 7–8: Science — Heat and Temperature
- Activity: Measure temperature changes using sensors
- Use CASIO scientific calculators to calculate averages and plot estimated trends
Years 9–10: Mathematics — Quadratic Equations
- Activity: Explore real-world parabolas (e.g. projectile motion)
- Use graphing calculators to test equations and visualise solutions
Year 11: Engineering Studies — Materials Testing
- Activity: Compare tensile strength of materials
- Use calculators for repeated trial inputs, data modelling, and result comparison
Year 12: Mathematics Extension — Calculus Applications
- Activity: Explore rates of change and optimisation problems
- Use CAS-enabled calculators to graph derivatives and evaluate definite integrals
Equip classrooms with CASIO calculators that support STEM learning
STEM education thrives on exploration and problem-solving. CASIO calculators provide students with a dependable and intuitive tool they can use across disciplines — from science experiments to engineering projects. For teachers, the range of functions and free teaching resources makes lesson planning simpler and more impactful.
As the demands of STEM education evolve, CASIO remains a trusted partner in helping students succeed — backed by exam-approved models and a longstanding relationship with the Australian teaching community. Explore classroom-ready calculators, access free resources or request a sample today using your Prime Schools Plus account.