Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Information Technology IT
Lesson Topic: Perform what-if analysis and goal seek
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the purpose and process of what‑if analysis in spreadsheets.
  • Explain how Goal Seek functions and its limitations.
  • Apply both techniques to a profit model to evaluate scenarios and determine required sales.
  • Interpret the results and communicate clear recommendations.
Materials Needed:
  • Computer with spreadsheet software (Excel or Google Sheets)
  • Projector and screen
  • Printed worksheet containing the profit model data
  • Example data‑table handout
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Access to Scenario Manager / Data Table feature
 Introduction:
Imagine you need to know how changing price or sales volume will affect profit. Students already understand basic spreadsheet formulas and cell references, so we will build on that knowledge. By the end of the lesson they will be able to set up a data table, run Goal Seek, and explain the outcomes as evidence of their learning.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Quick recall quiz on formulas and cell references – checks prior knowledge.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Introduce what‑if analysis concepts and demonstrate setting up a data table.
  3. Guided practice (15'): Students create a data table for price and quantity changes, then interpret KPI impacts.
  4. Demonstration (5'): Teacher models Goal Seek to find the quantity needed for a $15,000 profit target.
  5. Independent activity (15'): Learners apply Goal Seek to their own model, record the solution, and compare results with a partner.
  6. Plenary (5'): Whole‑class discussion linking activities back to the objectives and addressing misconceptions.
Conclusion:
We reviewed how what‑if analysis explores multiple scenarios and how Goal Seek finds a single input to meet a target. For the exit ticket, students write one insight from the data‑table exercise and one result from Goal Seek on a sticky note. Homework: create a new profit model with different cost structures and repeat both techniques to reinforce learning.