Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Information Communication Technology ICT
Lesson Topic: Be able to add a second axis
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the purpose of a secondary axis in a chart.
  • Identify situations where a secondary axis is appropriate.
  • Apply the step‑by‑step procedure to add a secondary axis in spreadsheet software.
  • Format and label both axes correctly to avoid misinterpretation.
  • Evaluate charts for common pitfalls such as colour choice and axis limits.
Materials Needed:
  • Computer lab with spreadsheet software (Excel or Google Sheets)
  • Projector and screen
  • Sample data sets (temperature/absence, revenue/units sold)
  • Worksheet with guided steps and practice questions
  • Whiteboard and markers
 Introduction:
Begin with the question, “How can we compare temperature and student absences on the same chart?” Recall the previous lesson on creating basic line charts. Today students will learn when and how to add a secondary axis and will be able to produce a clear dual‑axis chart by the end of the lesson.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5') – Examine a single‑axis chart and note any issues.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Explain the concept of a secondary axis, when to use it, and show a real‑world example.
  3. Demonstration (12') – Live step‑by‑step addition of a secondary axis in a spreadsheet.
  4. Guided practice (15') – Students create a dual‑axis chart using the temperature/absence data set, following the worksheet.
  5. Pair check (8') – Exchange charts to verify correct labeling, axis limits, and colour differentiation.
  6. Whole‑class debrief (5') – Discuss common pitfalls and answer the practice questions.
  7. Exit ticket (5') – Write one scenario where a secondary axis is appropriate and justify the choice.
Conclusion:
Recap that a secondary axis enables clear comparison of data with different units or scales. Students complete an exit ticket describing a real‑world example, and for homework they will create a dual‑axis chart using the revenue and units‑sold data set.