Lesson Plan

• Describe the purpose of data validation and its impact on data quality.
• Identify and differentiate common validation types (mandatory, format, range, consistency, lookup, cross‑field).
• Apply validation rules using spreadsheets, databases, word processors and web forms.
• Test validation routines with valid, invalid and boundary data.
• Evaluate validation designs to avoid over‑restriction and unclear error messages.

• Computer with internet access
• Spreadsheet software (Excel or Google Sheets)
• Database software (Access or MySQL Workbench)
• Word processor with content controls (Microsoft Word)
• Web browser and simple HTML/JavaScript editor
• Projector or interactive whiteboard
• Sample data worksheets and validation handouts

Begin with a quick poll: “What could go wrong if a student’s ID is entered incorrectly?” Connect this to previous lessons on data quality. Explain that today’s success criteria are to design, apply and test validation rules that prevent such errors.

1. Do‑now (5’) – Students list real‑world consequences of data entry errors on a sticky note.
2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Overview of validation purpose and the six common validation types, using a slide deck.
3. Demonstration (15’) – Live demo of Excel’s Data Validation (mandatory, range, list) and students follow on their own laptops.
4. Hands‑on activity (20’) – In Google Sheets, learners create a simple data‑entry sheet applying at least three validation rules and test with valid/invalid entries.
5. Database validation demo (10’) – Show how to set “Required” and a numeric range rule in Access.
6. Web‑form validation (10’) – Introduce HTML5 attributes (required, type, min/max, pattern) and add them to a sample form.
7. Review & Q&A (5’) – Recap key points, clarify misconceptions, and answer questions.

Summarise how each validation type reduces specific errors and remind students to always test rules with boundary and empty values. Exit ticket: each pupil writes one validation rule they will use in their next project. Assign homework to design a validation‑rich form for a fictional survey.