Surf for More Math
Lesson 4 - Using a Spreadsheet
Use the following interactive games and activities to encourage students to have fun on the Web while learning how to use a spreadsheet. Students can do these activities on their own or in pairs.
Goal
Use a spreadsheet, and understand the difference between a spreadsheet and a database.
Builds Upon
Student Book pages 92-95
Instructions for Use
Spreadsheet lets students practice using a spreadsheet by selecting and editing a cell, entering values into a cell, and exiting a cell without changing the contents.
To use Spreadsheet, click on a cell to enter values. To edit the cell, select it, enter data, and then press the Enter key. To exit a cell, press the Esc key.
To perform a calculation, start the contents of the cell with an equals sign ( = ).
To reference cells, simply use the column and row location of the cell, such as A1, D7, or B65. To reference a range of cells use a colon ( : ) between two cell references, such as A1:C9, D8:D20, or B1:F1.
To copy a single cell, select the cell. Choose "Copy" from the Edit menu. Move the cell to the new location and select "Paste" from the Edit menu.
To sort the entire spreadsheet, select a cell in the column or row to be sorted and then choose "Sort rows" or "Sort Cols" from the Tools menu.
Examining Weather Data prompts students to use spreadsheet software to sort and analyze data.
To use Examining Weather Data, click on a cell to edit or add new data. Use the buttons on the left to sort the data by different categories. Use the "Calculate" button to update the mean, maximum, and minimum. Use the "Clear" button to clear contents and the "Reset" button to return to the original values.
