Formulas in a spreadsheet model
I can use formulas to perform calculations in a spreadsheet model and replicate formulas across a range of cells.
Formulas in a spreadsheet model
I can use formulas to perform calculations in a spreadsheet model and replicate formulas across a range of cells.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Relative and absolute cell references are used in spreadsheet formulas to control how cell addresses change when copied.
- A relative reference changes automatically when the formula is copied to another cell.
- An absolute reference stays fixed on one cell, even when the formula is replicated.
- Using the correct type of reference helps ensure formulas calculate correctly when using tools like the fill handle.
Keywords
Replicate - to copy or repeat something
Relative - a cell reference that changes when a formula is copied or replicated to another cell
Absolute - a cell reference that remains constant no matter where it is copied or replicated
Common misconception
The fill handle can only be used to replicate formulas.
The fill handle can replicate formulas, text and numbers.
To help you plan your year 11 computing lesson on: Formulas in a spreadsheet model, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 computing lesson on: Formulas in a spreadsheet model, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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Explore more key stage 4 computing lessons from the Spreadsheets unit, dive into the full secondary computing curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Files needed for this lesson
- Tuck shop 5.29 KB (XLSX)
- RSC seat sales 9.4 KB (XLSX)
- RSC seat sales solution 10.1 KB (XLSX)
Download these files to use in the lesson.
Equipment
Pupils will need access to spreadsheet software.
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
changes automatically when copied
stays fixed when copied
tool to replicate formulas
performs calculations in cells