Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Information Communication Technology ICT
Lesson Topic: Be able to use nested functions
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe what a nested function is and its benefits in spreadsheets.
  • Identify appropriate functions to nest for common data‑analysis tasks.
  • Construct and test nested formulas using IF, SUM, VLOOKUP, LEN, and text functions.
  • Diagnose and correct common errors in nested formulas.
Materials Needed:
  • Computer with spreadsheet software (Excel/Google Sheets)
  • Projector and screen
  • Worksheet with practice data sets
  • Example spreadsheet file pre‑loaded with formulas
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Handout of function syntax cheat‑sheet
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick poll: Who has used IF or SUM functions before? Review the concept of a single function and link it to today’s goal of combining functions. Explain that by the end of the lesson students will be able to create and troubleshoot nested formulas, which will be the success criteria.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5’) – Students complete a short quiz on basic functions in their workbook.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Define nested functions, show syntax, and discuss benefits using examples from the source.
  3. Guided demonstration (15’) – Live modelling of the grading IF formula and the conditional SUM, highlighting parentheses and order of evaluation.
  4. Pair activity (15’) – Learners build a nested formula for a text‑length check and another for revenue calculation using the worksheet.
  5. Check for understanding (5’) – Quick “exit ticket” where each pair writes one common error and its fix.
  6. Whole‑class review (5’) – Discuss answers, address pitfalls, and answer questions.
Conclusion:
Summarise that nested functions reduce cell clutter and enable complex logic. Ask a few students to share one formula they built and one mistake they corrected. Collect exit tickets and assign homework to design a nested formula for a real‑world scenario.