Spreadsheet modelling
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can identify the key components of a spreadsheet and use a spreadsheet model for a given scenario.
Key learning points
- Key components of a spreadsheet model include cells, rows, columns and sheets.
- Spreadsheet formatting can be used to visualise data effectively.
- Mathematical operations can be performed within cells using formulas and functions.
- A spreadsheet model represents real-world scenarios using data, formulas and rules.
Keywords
Cell - a rectangular box that holds data in a spreadsheet
Formula - performs calculations in a spreadsheet
Formatting - modifying the appearance of data in a spreadsheet
Function - a predefined formula that performs a calculation
Common misconception
Spreadsheet formatting is only used to make a spreadsheet look attractive.
Spreadsheet formatting is used to make information clearer but is also important to ensure data values such as currency are formatted correctly.
Teacher tip
This lesson contains downloadable spreadsheet files that pupils will need for the lesson. You could download these files prior to the lesson and make them available to pupils on your school's shared drive or cloud storage area.
Equipment
Pupils will need access to a device with spreadsheet software. Examples in this lesson use Google Sheets https://oak.link/google-sheets
File needed for this lesson
RCS spreadsheet L1 72.04 KB (XLSX)
Download this file to use in the lesson.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is a row in a table?
Q2.Which symbol is used for addition in calculations?
Q3.Which symbol is used for division in calculations?
Q4.What is a formula in software?
Q5.What is the purpose of tables in software?
Q6.What is the result of 6 * 3?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of the following is NOT a key component of a spreadsheet model?
Q2.Match the keywords to their correct definitions:
a rectangular box used in a spreadsheet to store data
modifying the appearance of data in a spreadsheet
performs calculations in a spreadsheet
a ready-made instruction that performs a specific mathematical job
Q3.What is the purpose of spreadsheet formatting?
Q4.What symbol is used to start a formula?
Q5.Type in the formula to subtract B5 from J2:
Q6.Type in the function to add cell A1 to A5.
To help you plan your 11 computing lesson on: Spreadsheet modelling, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 11 computing lesson on: Spreadsheet modelling, 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.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 4 computing lessons from the Spreadsheets unit, dive into the full secondary computing curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.