Math Rocks!

It's back to school time! Whether you love it or hate it, one of the best things about returning to the classroom is getting new school supplies. This year you'll want to put the TI-Nspire graphing calculator on your shopping list, which should make math class a little easier. Okay, so it won't guarantee that you'll ace algebra and physics, but it may help you develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for math and science in general.

Texas Instruments showed off the latest version of the calculator last month at the Teen Choice Awards Celebrity Retreat as part of their "Math Rocks" campaign. Stars like the Jonas Brothers, David Archuleta, and more went crazy for the gadget. Brenda Song ("The Suite Life of Zack and Cody") was so geeked she admitted, "I was such a dork in math. TI was my friend!"

Even if you're not a dork, it's hard not to like this sleek blue and white calculator. It has so many cool features (two interchangeable keybads, the ability to save your work, etc.) that it's like a mini computer!

You can get the TI-Nspire for $179.99 at Target. It sounds pricey, but it's a worthwhile investment as it offers upgradable features that will allow you to customize your calculator for specific courses year after year from junior high through college. It might even help you get into the university of your choice since students are allowed to use graphing calculators during certain sections of the SAT, ACT, and AP exams. Why didn't they have these when I was in school?