What common misconception do older children have about calculators?

The belief that calculators always give the correct answer is a common misconception among older children. This idea stems from the inherent trust we place in technology to perform tasks accurately. However, it's important to understand that calculators operate based on the input provided by the user. If incorrect numbers or operations are entered, the output will also be incorrect, regardless of the device's reliability.

This misconception can lead to a lack of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as children may rely too heavily on the calculator without understanding the underlying mathematics. By reinforcing the idea that calculators are tools to assist in calculations rather than infallible sources of truth, educators can help children develop a more nuanced understanding of math and technology.

The other options reflect different limitations or contexts where calculators may be perceived incorrectly but do not capture the fundamental misunderstanding about the nature of calculation accuracy that option B addresses.