Using formulas in a spreadsheet
I can use spreadsheet functions that work with ranges of cells.
Using formulas in a spreadsheet
I can use spreadsheet functions that work with ranges of cells.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- A range of cells is a collection of cells located directly next to each other.
- A function in a spreadsheet performs a preset formula to a cell using any number of other cells.
- Use of pre-built functions in spreadsheets makes it easier to perform complex calculations.
Keywords
Function - a ready-made instruction that performs a specific mathematical job
Range - a group of cells that are next to each other
Common misconception
You should create a formula in a spreadsheet yourself even if a pre-built function already exisits that does what you need your formula to do.
Use pre-built spreadsheet functions whenever possible to save time and avoid mistakes. Use of technology should help you find ways to assist in what you need to do.
To help you plan your year 6 computing lesson on: Using formulas in a spreadsheet, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 6 computing lesson on: Using formulas in a spreadsheet, 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 2 computing lessons from the Introduction to spreadsheets unit, dive into the full secondary computing curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Pupils need access to spreadsheet software.
Licence
Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
A mathematical expression that calculates a value.
An operation that performs calculations on a range of data.
The total of a group of numbers.
The number of items in a range.
The mean value of a group of numbers.