Lesson Plan
Course Title: Computer Applications
Session Title: Basic Spreadsheet Formulas
Lesson Duration: 45 Minutes
Lesson length is subjective and will vary from instructor to instructor.
Performance Objective:
Upon completion of this lesson, the student will be able to create a spreadsheet utilizing
formulas for the following mathematical operators: addition, subtraction, division, and
multiplication.
Specific Objectives:
1. Define terms associated with the lesson.
2. Identify the need for spreadsheet formulas.
3. Determine a personal need for creating a spreadsheet with all of the identified formulas.
4. Build a personal spreadsheet with identified formulas.
5. Evaluate finished spreadsheet.
Preparation
TEKS Correlations:
123.47(c)(2)(A)
Apply computer technology to individual or community problems;
123.47(c)(2)(D)
Identify and describe the roles of computer technology;
123.47(c)(2)(E)
Use computer technology to record, locate, analyze, present, and exchange information;
123.47(c)(4)(A)
Report on emerging and innovative computer technologies;
123.47(c)(4)(B)
Conduct research and experimentation in computer technology;
123.47(c)(6)(A)
Describe the properties and characteristics of computer-related hardware and software;
123.47(c)(2)(C)
Describe the processes used in computer technology;
123.47(c)(9)(A)
Participate in the organization and operation of a real or simulated computer project;
123.47(c)(12)(A)
Describe how changes in computer technology affect business and industry;
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123.47(c)(12)(B)
Describe how the development and uses of computer technology are influenced by past events;
123.47(c)(12)(C)
Describe change and the factors that affect the adoption or rejection of computer technology;
123.47(c)(12)(D)
Describe the factors that encourage the evolution of technology;
123.47(c)(13)(D)
Apply critical-thinking strategies to the analysis and evaluation of proposed technological
solutions; and
123.47(c)(15)(D)
Prepare technical reports and presentations.
Interdisciplinary Correlations:
Mathematics:
111.xx(1)(B) – Foundations For Functions
Gather and record data, and use data sets to determine functional relationships between
quantities;
110.xx(6)(D) – Foundations For Functions
Represent relationships among quantities using concrete models, tables, graphs, diagrams,
verbal descriptions, equations;
English:
110.xx(6)(A) – Vocabulary Development
Expand vocabulary through…listening and discussing…and
110.xx(6)(B) – Vocabulary Development
Rely on context to determine meanings of words.
Technology for All Americans Standard (ITEA & NSF)
Standard 1. Students will develop an understanding of the characteristics and scope of
technology.
Standard 2. Students will develop an understanding of the core concepts of
technology.
Standard 3. Students will develop an understanding of the relationships among
technologies and the connections between technology and other fields of
study.
Standard 17. Students will develop an understanding of, and be able to select and use,
information and communication technologies.
Instructor/Trainer
References:
1. Curriculum-developer knowledge
2. Excel help
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Instructional Aids:
1. Spreadsheet Formulas Vocabulary PowerPoint (pdf)
2. Vocabulary Organizer (pdf)
3. Spreadsheet Formulas PowerPoint (pdf)
4. Spreadsheet Formulas Organizer (pdf)
5. My Stocks Investments Demonstration (Excel only)
6. Directions for Demonstration (pdf)
7. Spreadsheet Formulas Assignment (pdf)
8. Spreadsheet Formulas Assignment Rubric (pdf)
Materials Needed:
1. Spreadsheet Software (preferably MS Excel 2007; however, any version of Excel will work).
Equipment Needed:
1. Projector for PowerPoint
2. Computer Lab
3. Internet Access
Learner Preparation
A pre-requisite to this lesson is mastery of an Introduction to Spreadsheets lesson.
Lesson Plan
Introduction (LSI Quadrant I):
ASK: Have you ever been sitting in class and wondered, “When will I EVER use this in life???”
SAY: What if I told you that, today, I would teach you something you’re extremely likely to use in
your future, and could even start using right now?
SAY: Today we will discuss basic spreadsheet formulas using mathematical operators with
which you’re already familiar (such as addition, subtraction, division and multiplication). I will
show you how you could use each formula to approach everyday “common” problems.
Outline
Outline (LSI Quadrant II):
I. Spreadsheet Terms
A. Excel Formulas – Allow you to perform calculations on
B.
C.
D.
data entered into a spreadsheet. The advantage to
using an Excel spreadsheet for your formulas rather
than a calculator is that, if you change the data in the
spreadsheet, Excel will automatically re-calculate the
answer for you without you having to re-enter the
formula.
Data – Information (values, or numbers; labels, or text;
and date/time) that is stored in a spreadsheet program.
Spreadsheet – A table used to store various types of
data.
Cells – The basic storage unit for data in a spreadsheet
and the intersection point of a column and a row. In
Instructor Notes:
Use the Spreadsheet
Formulas Vocabulary
PowerPoint (pdf)
presentation to show
terms associated with
the lesson. Students
should complete the
Vocabulary Organizer
(pdf).
Each slide will include a
screenshot of Excel as
an example of the
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E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
II.
Excel, each rectangular box is referred to as a cell.
Rows – Rows run horizontally in Excel and are
identified by a number in the row header.
Columns – Columns run vertically in Excel and are
identified by a letter in the column header.
Cell Reference – The cell reference identifies the
location of a cell, and consists of the column letter and
row number that intersect at the cell’s location.
Relative Cell Reference – Default for all Excel cell
references. It identifies the location of a cell, and
changes when the formula is copied to other cells. In
other words, it’s relative to where it is in the
spreadsheet.
Absolute Cell Reference – In contrast to relative cell
references, an absolute cell reference does not change
when it is copied and pasted to other cells. In other
words, it will absolutely reference the same cell no
matter where it is in the spreadsheet.
Relevance of Spreadsheets to Everyday Life
A. Purpose of a spreadsheet
1. Keep track of money
2. Keep up with statistics
3. Managing information
4. Analyzing information
5. Presenting information
B. Before electronic spreadsheets…
1. How do you think businesses kept up with
finances, payroll, inventory, etc. before
computers?
2. How do you think electronic spreadsheets have
transformed businesses today?
C. Some ways that spreadsheets can be used in
everyday life:
1. Sports Stats (ex. batting average)
2. Grades
3. Budgets
4. Inventory
5. Buying a Car (comparison shopping)
concept/term. Feel free
to toggle back and forth
between PowerPoint
and MS Excel to further
explain/demonstrate the
concepts.
Use this website to
show your class some
“everyday uses” for
spreadsheets that are
relevant and meaningful
to them:
www.belmar.k12.nj.us/pu
blic/everyday_spreadshe
ets.
Use the Spreadsheet
Formulas PowerPoint
(pdf) to present the
outline II.-V. Students
should complete the
Spreadsheet Formulas
Organizer.
Ask:
How do you think
businesses kept up with
finances, payroll,
inventory etc. before
computers?
How do you think
electronic spreadsheets
have transformed
businesses today?
Brainstorm ways that
spreadsheets can be
used in everyday life
and relate them to the
items in II. B. 1-5.
III.
Using Formulas in Excel
A. Formulas
1. Addition
2. Subtraction
SEE GUIDED
PRACTICE:
After presenting the
slides in III. A.-B., use
the My Stocks
Investments
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B.
3. Multiplication
4. Division
Relative Vs. Absolute
Demonstration Excel file
to demonstrate the
addition, subtraction,
multiplication, and
division formulas, as
well as relative cell
references when a
formula is copied.
Refer to: the Directions
for Demonstration (pdf)
document for the steps
to demonstrate these
formulas.
Ask for one or two
volunteers to redemonstrate in front of
peers. Encourage
students watching to
peer coach and evaluate
the student
demonstrator.
IV.
V.
Assignment: Create a spreadsheet with formulas
A. Addition
B. Subtraction
C. Multiplication
D. Division
E. Relative Cell References
Think of your own personal spreadsheet need and use
the formulas from this lesson in the spreadsheet. Fill in
your personal spreadsheet topic on your organizer.
After outline I.-III. is
finished, Explain the
Spreadsheet Formulas
Assignment (pdf).
Students will think of
their own personal
spreadsheet need and
use the formulas in the
lesson in their
spreadsheet – ex.
personal budget, grade
computation, sports
averages, calories for
the day etc.
Review the Spreadsheet
Formulas Assignment
Rubric (pdf) with the
students.
Copy and paste Multiple Intelligences Graphic in appropriate place in left column.
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Verbal
Linguistic
Logical
Mathematical
Visual
Spatial
Musical
Rhythmic
Bodily
Kinesthetic
Intropersonal
Interpersonal
Naturalist
Existentialist
Guided Practice (LSI Quadrant III):
The teacher will use the My Stocks Investments Demonstration Excel file to demonstrate the
addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division formulas, as well as relative cell references
when a formula is copied. Volunteers will re-demonstrate in front of peers. Students watching
will peer coach and evaluate the student demonstrator.
Independent Practice (LSI Quadrant III):
Students will complete the Spreadsheet Formulas Assignment (pdf) independently.
Summary
Review (LSI Quadrants I and IV):
Q&A Session
Q: For what reasons are spreadsheets used?
A: Spreadsheets are an accurate and easy way to keep track of money, statistics, and information,
analyze information, and present it in a way that makes sense to someone else.
Q: What are some “everyday uses” for spreadsheets?
A: Answers will vary, but should coincide with the Brainstorm from the lesson. Ex. Sports statistics,
grades, budgets, inventory, buying a car etc.
Q: What is an Excel formula?
A: An excel formula allows you to perform calculations on data entered into a spreadsheet. Students
might also answer using the actual formula (i.e. addition, subtraction, multiplication, division). If so,
re-direct them to the real definition.
Q: What’s the difference between a row and a column?
A: A row runs horizontally and is identified by a number, and a column runs vertically and is identified by
a letter.
Q: What does the intersection of a row and a column tell us?
A: The location of a cell. Ex. Cell A1 is Column A, Row 1. This is called the cell reference.
Q: What’s the difference between a relative and an absolute cell reference?
A: A relative cell reference identifies the location of a cell and changes when the formula is copied to
other cells. In contrast, an absolute cell reference does not change when it is copied and pasted to
other cells.
Evaluation
Informal Assessment (LSI Quadrant III):
Teacher will observe student demonstrators and student observers during guided practice to
assess student understanding of concepts and techniques. Revision/re-teach will occur as
needed before moving to Independent Practice portion of the lesson.
Teacher will circulate through the lab as students work independently to redirect/re-teach as
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necessary.
Formal Assessment (LSI Quadrant III, IV):
Teacher will use Spreadsheet Formulas Assignment Rubric (pdf) to grade the Spreadsheet
Formulas Assignment (pdf).
Extension
Extension/Enrichment (LSI Quadrant IV):
Students can use the skills and techniques for future excel and MS Office integration projects.
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Basic
Spreadsheet
Formulas
Vocabulary
Created by The University of North Texas in partnership with
the Texas Education Agency
Excel Formulas
Allow you to perform calculations on data
entered into a spreadsheet.
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2
Data
Information (values, or numbers;
labels, or text; and date/time) that is
stored in a spreadsheet program.
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3
Spreadsheet
A table used to store various types of
data.
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Cells
The basic storage unit for data in a
spreadsheet, and the intersection point
of a column and a row. In Excel, each
rectangular box is referred to as a cell.
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Rows
Rows run horizontally in Excel and are
identified by a number in the row header.
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Columns
Columns run vertically in Excel and are
identified by a letter in the column
header.
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Cell Reference
The cell reference identifies the location of a
cell, and consists of the column letter and
row number that intersect at the cell’s
location.
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Relative Cell Reference
Identifies the location of a cell and
changes when the formula is copied to
other cells.
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Absolute Cell Reference
An absolute cell reference does not
change when it is copied and pasted to
other cells.
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Lesson Outline
Created by The University of North
Texas in partnership with the Texas
Education Agency
II. Relevance of Spreadsheets to Everyday Life
A. Purpose of a spreadsheet
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Keep track of money
Keep up with statistics
Managing information
Analyzing information
Presenting information
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II. Relevance of Spreadsheets to Everyday Life
B. Before electronic spreadsheets…
1.
How do you think businesses kept up with
finances, payroll, inventory, etc. before
computers?
2.
How do you think electronic spreadsheets have
transformed businesses today?
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II. Relevance of Spreadsheets to Everyday Life
C. Brainstorm some ways that spreadsheets can be
used in everyday life:
1. Sports Stats (ex. Batting average)
2. Grades
3. Budgets
4. Inventory
5. Buying a car
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III. Basic Formulas in Excel
A. Addition – Formula is:
=cell 1+cell2+cell3+cell4 (and so on)
Example:
=a1+a2+a3+a4 will add the values in
cells a1, a2, a3 and a4
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III. Basic Formulas in Excel
B. Subtraction – Formula is:
=cell 1-cell4
Example:
=a1-a4 will subtract the value in cell a4
from the value in a1
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III. Basic Formulas in Excel
C. Multiply – Formula is:
=cell 1*cell4
Example:
=a1*a4 will multiply the value in cell a1
by the value in a4
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III. Basic Formulas in Excel
D. Divide – Formula is:
=cell 1/cell4
Example:
=a1/a4 will divide the value in cell a1 by
the value in a4
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III. Basic Formulas in Excel
E. Relative Vs. Absolute Cell References
Relative cell reference identifies the
location of a cell and changes when the
formula is copied and pasted to other
cells. An absolute cell reference does
not change.
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IV. Assignment: Create a spreadsheet with formulas
A. Addition
B. Subtraction
C. Multiplication
D. Division
E. Relative Cell Reference
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V. Assignment:
Think of your own personal spreadsheet
need and use the formulas in the lesson in
the spreadsheet. Fill in your personal
spreadsheet topic on your organizer.
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Basic Spreadsheet Formulas
Demonstration/Guided Practice Notes for Instructor
Using the „My Stocks and Investments‟ example, you will demonstrate
manually typing in formulas and point-and-click formulas for the class.
This might require some background on the nature of investing and
computing gain/loss.
Minimize the PowerPoint, and open the file.
Using Cell F3, type in the formula „=d3*e3‟. Show how excel returns
the value within the cell and references cell d3 and e3.
Delete the formula, and now do the same thing with Point and click.
Type =, point to cell d3, click it – type in the „*‟ symbol and click cell
e3.
Delete the formula again, and have a student demonstrate/replicate
what you just did – or if you‟re in a lab environment, have the class
enter the data and enter the formulas with you.
Now show how this “relative formula” morphs itself when copied down
the column. Ex – the formula becomes =d4*e4.
Do the same thing for Current Value (formula will be =d3*g3),
Gain/Loss (formula will be =h3-f3), and percent gain loss (formula will
be =i3/f3). Again, demonstrate the relative nature of the formulas.
Next, demonstrate the addition/Sum formula in cell d7 by typing in
=d3+d4+d5+d6 to get the total number of shares.
Vocabulary Organizer for Basic Spreadsheet Formulas Lesson
Excel Formulas: Allow you to perform ___________ on _______ entered into a
spreadsheet.
Data:
___________ (values, or numbers; labels, or text; and date/time) that is
___________ in a spreadsheet program.
Spreadsheet:
A ___________ used to store various types of data.
Cells:
The ___________ _________ ________ for data in a spreadsheet, and the
______________ point of a column and a row. In Excel, each
___________ ____ is referred to as a cell.
Rows:
Rows run ______________ in Excel and are identified by a ___________
in the row header.
Columns:
Columns run ____________ in Excel and are identified by a ___________
in the column header.
Cell Reference:
The cell reference identifies the ____________ of a cell, and consists of
the column _________ and row _________ that intersect at the cell’s
location.
Relative
Cell Reference:
Absolute
Cell Reference:
_________ for all Excel cell references. It identifies the location of a cell
and __________ when the formula is copied to other cells. In other words,
it’s relative to where it is in the spreadsheet.
In contrast to relative cell references, an absolute cell reference _______
_____ change when it is copied and pasted to other cells. In other words, it
will absolutely reference the same cell no matter where it is in the
spreadsheet.
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Basic Spreadsheet Formulas Outline Organizer
I.
II.
Terms/concepts associated with the lesson (use Vocabulary Organizer to complete
definitions):
A. Excel Formulas –
B. Data –
C. Spreadsheet –
D. Cells E. Rows –
F. Columns –
G. Cell Reference –
H. Relative Cell Reference –
I.
Absolute Cell Reference –
Relevance of Spreadsheets to Everyday Life
A. Purpose of a spreadsheet:
1.
Keep track of __________
2.
Keep up with __________
3.
__________ information
4.
__________ information
5.
__________ information
B. Before electronic spreadsheets…
1.
How do you think businesses kept up with finances, payroll, inventory
etc. before computers?
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
2.
How do you think electronic spreadsheets have transformed businesses
today?
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
C. Brainstorm some ways that spreadsheets can be used in everyday life.
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III.
1.
_________________
2.
_________________
3.
_________________
4.
_________________
5.
_________________
Basic Formulas in Excel
A. Addition – Formula is: _______________
B. Subtraction – Formula is: _____________
C. Multiplication - Formula is: _____________
D. Division – Formula is: ______________
E. Relative Vs. Absolute
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
IV.
Assignment: Create a spreadsheet with formulas (see Spreadsheet
Assignment Sheet):
A. Addition
B. Subtraction
C. Multiplication
D. Division
E. Relative Vs. Absolute Cell References
V.
Think of your own personal spreadsheet need and use the formulas from this
lesson in the spreadsheet. Fill in your personal spreadsheet topic here:
__________________________________.
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Spreadsheet Formulas Assignment
Now that you’ve seen formulas work in Excel, you’re going to create your own
spreadsheet and apply the formulas we’ve learned today.
1. You will need to first decide what topic you’d like for your spreadsheet
(remember our brainstorm?).
2. Next, enter some “mock” data into the spreadsheet.
3. Finally, apply the addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division formulas to
your spreadsheet to interpret your data.
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Basic Spreadsheet Formulas Evaluation Rubric
YES – 20 Points
CRITERIA
NO – 0 Points
Included at least one
working addition formula
Did not include a working
addition formula
1 Subtraction
Formula
Included at least one
working subtraction
formula
Did not include a working
subtraction formula
1 Multiplication
Formula
Included at least one
working multiplication
formula
Did not include a working
multiplication formula
1 Division Formula
Included at least one
working division formula
Did not include a working
division formula
Formulas “copied”
to relative
rows/columns
At least one formula was
copied to relative
rows/columns
No formula was copied to
relative rows/columns
1 Addition Formula
POINTS
Total Points: ________
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