In most cases, students should not use a calculator during the Mathematics Placement Test or Fact Fluency. These tools are designed to identify foundational skill gaps and build mental math fluency, where calculators may interfere with accurate assessment and learning.

During Lessons

Moby Math lessons start with simple sub-skills that build up to more complex concepts. Allowing a calculator too early can limit a student’s ability to develop critical foundational skills, such as number sense, computation, and problem-solving strategies.

However, MobyMax also recognizes that every student is different.

Teacher Discretion

We leave the decision to permit calculator use during lessons or assessments up to the teacher. Educators may decide to allow calculators for:

• Students with IEP accommodations

• Specific upper-grade skills where calculator use aligns with classroom expectations

• Reinforcement of problem-solving in multi-step word problems

Teachers know their students best and can determine when calculator use is appropriate based on learning goals.

Summary

• Placement Test: Calculator use not recommended

• Fact Fluency: Calculator use not allowed

• Lessons: Calculator use discouraged for early sub-skills, but may be allowed at teacher discretion