Lesson Plan

• Describe cell‑reference notation and differentiate relative from absolute references.
• Apply relative and absolute references to build accurate formulas.
• Use basic arithmetic operators and common functions (SUM, AVERAGE, MIN, MAX) with cell ranges.
• Copy and fill formulas correctly while preserving required references.
• Identify and correct typical formula errors such as missing “=”, wrong range syntax, or inappropriate reference types.

• Computer lab with spreadsheet software (Excel, Google Sheets, etc.).
• Projector and screen for demonstrations.
• Printed worksheet containing the practice exercise.
• Whiteboard and markers.
• Sample data file (optional) showing a simple sales table.

Begin with a quick real‑world scenario – calculating sales tax for a small shop – to highlight why precise formulas matter. Review students’ prior knowledge of basic arithmetic operators in spreadsheets. Explain that today they will master cell references so their calculations stay accurate when copied. Success will be measured by their ability to create, copy, and troubleshoot formulas using both relative and absolute references.

1. Do‑Now (5'): Mental‑math quiz on +, –, *, / and exponentiation.
2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Introduce cell‑reference notation and the difference between relative and absolute references; demonstrate with simple examples.
3. Guided Practice (15'): Students enter a relative formula (=B2+C2) in D2, copy it down, and discuss how the references change.
4. Demonstration (10'): Show an absolute reference example using a tax rate in $F$1; students replicate the formula (=B2*$F$1) and copy it.
5. Functions & Ranges (10'): Teach SUM and AVERAGE syntax; students calculate total sales and tax using mixed references.
6. Independent Worksheet (15'): Complete the provided exercise (enter values, apply tax, compute totals, use SUM for grand total).
7. Check for Understanding (5'): Exit ticket – write one formula that combines a relative and an absolute reference.

Review the key distinction between relative and absolute references and how they affect copying formulas. Collect exit tickets to gauge immediate understanding. For homework, ask students to design a simple personal budget spreadsheet that uses at least three different absolute references and two functions.