Microsoft Mathematics is free

[bibblebub]

http://www.microsoft....default.aspx#overview

I've only just come across it and thought that it might prove useful to some people who post questions here.

It can solve polynomials and simultaneous equations, and shows the working for each.
Various of the simpler formulae of physics and chemistry as well as mathematics are available.
It will solve problems involving triangles.
It will convert measurement from one unit to another e.g. metric <-> imperial.
It draws graphs of functions.

And includes a scientific calculator.

[factor-fiction]

Thanks, I'll have a look.

[ChuckFickens]

It'll be interesting to see how long it takes for students to start copying the solutions and workings direct from MS maths now.

[wolf63]

When I was at school the new technology (a calculator) was frowned upon and using it was looked upon as cheating.

I still tend to count using my fingers.

[bibblebub]

Anything goes these days. This program could be used to confirm answers obtained using more conventional methods.

[factor-fiction]

As regards students copying solutions I think many pupils who can't work these out in the traditional method wouldn't be able to select and correctly use the correct formula. Pupils who can't work out 30% of £30 or convert 1500 metres into kilometres mentally or with pen and paper are normally still clueless when given a calculator or spreadsheet to help them.