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Numeracy Focus |
Reasoning and generalising about numbers and shapes. |
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Learning Objective |
To be able to use a spreadsheet to observe the effects of changing numbers
in a formula. |
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Resources |
Large display or OHP. RM Number Magic function machine example, if available.
Download and copy the activity
sheet for this session. |
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Key vocabulary |
Cell, row, column, formula, reference, operation, sign |
Revision /
oral |
Recap last session, review individual / group follow-up work. Ask pupils
to explain how to enter a formula to make a multiplication table. Remind
pupils that the computer uses * for multiply and / for divide. Explain
where to find these symbols. |
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Main activity |
Let a pupil enter a number anywhere on the sheet. Enter a formula in
the adjacent cell. Change the number in the first box. Observe what
happens in the 2nd box. Rearrange the information to present it more
clearly. Demonstrate the function machine example in RM Number Magic
or a prepared spreadsheet with a large clear function machine on it.
Ask pupils to make their own function machines on the task sheet.
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Support |
Check for misunderstandings. Set tasks appropriate to pupils' abilities. |
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Extension |
Ask pupils to set input and output numbers on a sheet, then swap with
a partner who then has to identify the formula that would produce the
output and enter it onto the sheet in the appropriate column. Ensure that
the children who set the task can carry it out themselves. |
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Plenary |
Share examples of work done. Go over the key points about cell references
and the use of = in the formula.
Before the next session, arrange for pupils to spend 15/20 minutes
on the computer in groups of 2 or 3 to make their own function machines.
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