Lesson Plan

Resources → Subject Notes → Information Communication Technology ICT → Notes
Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Information Communication Technology ICT
Lesson Topic: Be able to use arithmetic operators in formulae including add, subtract, multiply, divide, indices
Learning Objective/s:
  • Apply the five basic arithmetic operators (+, -, *, /, ^) in spreadsheet formulae.
  • Construct correct formulas using cell references, operators and parentheses following PEMDAS.
  • Identify and correct common formula errors such as missing “=”, wrong symbols, and division by zero.
  • Calculate real‑world scenarios (e.g., totals, discounts, conversion, compound interest) using appropriate operators.
  • Explain the effect of operator precedence on formula results.
Materials Needed:
  • Computer lab with spreadsheet software (Excel/Google Sheets)
  • Projector and screen
  • Printed worksheet with practice questions
  • Example spreadsheet file pre‑loaded with data
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Sticky notes for exit tickets
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick demonstration of a simple addition formula in Excel to capture interest. Ask students to recall how they have used calculators or mental math for basic operations. Explain that today they will learn how spreadsheets automate these calculations using operators and the success criteria: correctly build and evaluate formulas with correct syntax and order of operations.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5') – Short mental‑math quiz on +, -, *, /, ^ displayed on the board.
  2. Teacher mini‑lecture (10') – Introduce spreadsheet formula syntax and the five operators; show examples on the projector.
  3. Guided practice (15') – Students open the example file and build formulas for each operator while the teacher circulates.
  4. Order of operations activity (10') – Demonstrate PEMDAS with a complex formula; students rewrite it using parentheses to change the result.
  5. Independent practice (15') – Worksheet with five practice questions; students work individually and peer‑check.
  6. Error‑hunt (5') – Quick quiz where students spot common mistakes in given formulas.
  7. Recap & exit ticket (5') – Students write one useful formula and one error to avoid, then submit.
Conclusion:
Summarise that the five operators and proper use of parentheses allow accurate calculations in spreadsheets. Remind learners to always start a formula with “=” and to check operator precedence. For the exit ticket, each student submits a correctly built formula for a real‑world scenario. Homework: complete an online spreadsheet exercise creating formulas for a small budgeting task.