Iwould like to learn how to use the ti-89 for pre-algebra.

Some calculators that have a CAS (computer Algebra System) are the following
TI Nspire CAS, TI CX CAS, TI92 and TI 92 PLus, TI 89 Titanium, TI Voyage 200 PLT.
Casio FX Algebra 2.0 PLus, Casio ClassPad 330, 330 PLus, 400
HP 48 G, G+, GX, 49 G+, 50 G

its round has lots of squares and has a handle

The TI 86 calculator does not manipulate algebraic expressions. If does not have a Computer Algebra System or CAS. Try the TI 89 Titanium, TI92/92PLUS, Voyage 200 PLT, TI Nspire CAS, TI Nspire CX CAS. In Casios you have the ClassPad series (300, 300Plus, 330 Plus and the latest 400. The ClassPad 400 has a color screen. It is also orientable portrait or landscape. Other Casios are the Algebra FX 2 and 2, and the FX 9860 G Plus/ SD. In HP you have HP 50G, HP49C, HP49G+.

You can download the manual from the manufacturer's web site at
http://education.ti.com/calculators/downloads/US/Guidebooks/Detail?id=6128

There's also an aftermarket book:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ti-89-graphing-calculator-for-dummies-c-c-edwards/1013991784?ean=9780764589126&itm=1&usri=ti%2b89%2bdummies
If you're lucky, a local library will have it.


http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/
ti-89-graphing-calculator-for-dummies-c-c-edwards/1013991784

the 89 is in my opinion not need/ approriate for a 10th grade algebra class, or worth the extra money.

for example the 84 wont output variables it must output a number

so your son may be doing factoring, if he inserts (x^2+2x+1) the 89 will allow him to enter it and factor it as (x+1)(x+1) or (x+1)^2 the 84 will not.

the 84 will do pleanty as far as graphing, finding zeros,plotting, calculations, and should get him any answer that he seeks so long that he knows how to use the 84. It just wont give him the intermediate steps the the 89 is able to give.

hope this helps

You need to install notefolio to your TI-89.

You can download the program from:
http://education.ti.com/educationportal/sites/US/productDetail/us_notefolio_89.html

After you download the program file, you can use TI-Connect to transfer the program file to your calculator (after you connect the calculator to the computer with the USB cable). To transfer the files, simply drag and drop the program file onto the TI-Connect icon on your computer.

To learn more about the Notefolio app, here is the guidebook:
http://education.ti.com/educationportal/downloadcenter/SoftwareDetail.do?website=US&appId=6204&tabId=2

(2m^3)(3m^-1)^3/(3n^3)(5n^2)'

Hello,
The so-called (2x1) matrix is not a matrix. It is a vector.
Hope it helps.

It seems like a basic algebra problem:
300%(what)=60
3(x)=60
x=20

300%(20)=3(100%(20))=3(20)=60

The TI-30XA cannot solve algebraic equations. You need a more advanced calculator for that, like the TI-89.

Regards,
javabytes