Chapter 10: Spreadsheets Section IV: Using Problem Solving Tools to Enhance Learning

Chapter 10: Spreadsheets Learner Objectives At the completion of study, learners will be able to: –discuss research related to the use of spreadsheets in teaching and learning. –use terminology associated with spreadsheet tools. –demonstrate knowledge of the organization and capabilities of spreadsheet software. –examine ways to incorporate spreadsheets into teaching and learning. –use spreadsheet software to create an interactive spreadsheet. –examine methods of adapting and using spreadsheets with special learners. –plan and develop a lesson that aligns with state curriculum and NETSS standards and engages students in inquiry- based activities using a spreadsheet to solve problems.

Section IV: Using Problem Solving Tools to Enhance Learning Chapter 10: Spreadsheets Frameworks: What we know Spreadsheets are computerized record-keeping systems... used to generate numeric information and graphically represent it. Research studies report that spreadsheets facilitate –the development of organization skills. –the development of problem-solving skills. –describe relationships. –supports the math curriculum at all grade levels.

Section IV: Using Problem Solving Tools to Enhance Learning Chapter 10: Spreadsheets Frameworks: What we know Teachers use spreadsheets to –Keep records Calculate grades Budget reports –Design curriculum connections “interactive” spreadsheets can serve as practice or objective testing –Create student assignments

Section IV: Using Problem Solving Tools to Enhance Learning Chapter 10: Spreadsheets Frameworks: What we know Students use spreadsheets to –Analyze data Population growth Income distribution –Track data Rainfall Temperature –Complete interactive spreadsheets on various curriculum topics for practice and/or assessment

Section IV: Using Problem Solving Tools to Enhance Learning Chapter 10: Spreadsheets Basics: Spreadsheet Organization Often referred to as a worksheet... composed of columns and rows that intersect to form cells. –Columns: vertical divisions. –Rows: horizontal divisions. –Cells: Intersection of a column and a row.

Section IV: Using Problem Solving Tools to Enhance Learning Chapter 10: Spreadsheets Basics: SS Organization, cont’d –Cells have unique addresses consisting of the column name and row number: A1 –Active cell is the cell being used. –Address box displays the active cell. –Formula or data entry bar

Section IV: Using Problem Solving Tools to Enhance Learning Chapter 10: Spreadsheets Basics: Types of Data Used Only two types of data are entered into spreadsheets. –Numeric data (values) Data that consists of numbers –Alphabetic data (labels) Descriptions or labels for the columns to assist the reading of the spreadsheet

Section IV: Using Problem Solving Tools to Enhance Learning Chapter 10: Spreadsheets Basics: Capabilities Performing calculations are major capabilities of spreadsheets... new terms are used... –Range of cells Grouping of cells for mathematical calculations Uses a colon to represent missing cells... C1:C10 –Formula Set of instructions that the software follows to produce a value for a cell Must begin with = written in the formula bar –Functions Most commonly used formulas such as sum or average –Fill down & fill across A method used to copy the formula Shortcut IF same formula is needed (student grades)

Section IV: Using Problem Solving Tools to Enhance Learning Chapter 10: Spreadsheets Basics: Capabilities Formatting the data increases the ease of reading. Formatting Methods for Spreadsheets –Alignment –Typeface, style, size –Formatting the numbers: currency, decimals –Insertion of titles, borders or patterns.

Section IV: Using Problem Solving Tools to Enhance Learning Chapter 10: Spreadsheets Basics: Capabilities Creating Graphical Representations from Spreadsheet Data After calculations, a chart or graph can be created to assist reading. Common types: Pie graphs: for parts of a whole Line graphs: trend over time Bar graphs: compare categories NCES offers a great site for creating graphs and charts.

Section IV: Using Problem Solving Tools to Enhance Learning Chapter 10: Spreadsheets Constructing the Spreadsheet 1.Open the software (some software has more features) 2.Enter the title and column and row labels 3.Enter the data 4.Enter the formulas and functions as appropriate 5.Check the calculations and adjust as needed. 6.Format the data to increase ease of reading. 7.Set print options.

Section IV: Using Problem Solving Tools to Enhance Learning Chapter 10: Spreadsheets Spreadsheets in the Classroom Sites provided here provide information about using a database in the classroom. More is provided at On the Web: Spreadsheets –Integrating Spreadsheets in the ClassroomIntegrating Spreadsheets in the Classroom –Internet4Classrooms: MS Excel ModulesInternet4Classrooms: MS Excel Modules –Almost Everything You Need for Using Spreadsheets in the ClassroomAlmost Everything You Need for Using Spreadsheets in the Classroom

Section IV: Using Problem Solving Tools to Enhance Learning Chapter 10: Spreadsheets Adapting for Special Learners Vision Barriers –Adjust the actual worksheet display to accommodate for small text or indiscernible contrast. Cognitive Barriers –Use the charting and graphing features to serve as memory aids or to provide further explanations Physical Barriers –Keyboard adjustments include filter keys to adjust the rate of key stroke acceptance –Sticky keys allow typing with one hand –On screen keyboards

Section IV: Using Problem Solving Tools to Enhance Learning Chapter 10: Spreadsheets Questions????