1. Handling data and problem solving using spreadsheets

2. Handling data and problem solving
Objectives
To introduce spreadsheets and straightforward techniques for data entry and data handling including drawing graphs To consider how data handling can support decision making and proof To use spreadsheets and data handling to solve real problems
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3. Handling data and problem solving
What benefits?
Why are graphs and tables used?
Where do you see these most often?
When you engage with them how are you using them?
Systematic clear recording of the information
Able to analyse the information
Able to make judgements from the information
Able to inform decision making
Problems with 1 answer
Problems with more than 1 answer
Systematic clear recording of the information
Able to analyse the information
Able to make judgements from the information
Able to inform decision making
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4. Problematic mathematical contexts
I have a fence that is 60m long.
I need to enclose a rectangle of my garden to grow vegetables.
What area could my veggie plot be?
Focus on
Working systematically
Making decision based on easy to read proof
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5. Handling data and problem solving
Spreadsheet basics
What is it?
Entering data
Cell address
To edit data
Select cell and either type to overwrite or edit at top
Formatting
Resize columns – click and drag or x2 click
Wrap text – RH click, format cells
A video file is available to help support this work, uses Excel 2007, but some elements OK for other versions
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6. Make the spreadsheet work!
Value of drag and fill
Highlight x2 cells
Click and hold down drag handle to fill
Some patterns won’t work!!
= sign means “formula coming”!
Write formulae in terms of cells
Add 2 cells together: =c3+c4
X 2 cells: =d5*e8
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7. Handling data and problem solving
Drawing graphs
Reasons for graphing
Using data to inform decision making and make comparisons, requiring
Proof
Analysis
Highlight data to graph including labels
Click “insert tab”
Select your chart type
Select “chart tools” and “chart layouts” to format
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8. Problem solving: Mathematical context
I have a fence that is 60m long.
I need to enclose a rectangle of my garden to grow vegetables.
What area could my veggie plot be?
If I want the biggest area possible ……?
There is an excel file you can link to the biggest area.
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9. Handling data and problem solving
What data handling?
What aspects of data handling are involved here? What about the following problems?
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10. Handling data and problem solving
What’s in the Box?
Make a box (to be filled with popcorn)
Using a 20cm square of card
What is the maximum volume possible?
There is an excel file you can link to the maximum volume.
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11. Handling data and problem solving
Party time!!!
NCETM kindness: funds for a party
Food?
Entertainment?
Location?
Your job – in teams of 3 – to present a justification to the panel for your ideas
Collect your data
Make your decisions
Present your findings (inc graphs and interpretation) to the panel …… ME!
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12. Handling data and problem solving
Materials
This material was used in one of the series of CPD workshops that formed the four day course ‘Leading and supporting the development of digital technologies in mathematics’. This course, delivered in two sets of two-day sessions, was funded by the NCETM and written and tutored by members of the Association of Mathematics Education Teachers (AMET) and National Association of Mathematics Advisors (NAMA). Over 50 people followed the course with representatives from the ITE sector, Local Authorities and teachers from schools (primary, secondary and further education).
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