Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Information Communication Technology ICT
Lesson Topic: Be able to use arithmetic operations or numeric functions to perform calculations including calculated fields, calculated controls
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe why calculations are used in databases to improve consistency and decision‑making.
  • Apply arithmetic operators and numeric functions to create calculated fields.
  • Construct calculated controls on forms that display dynamic totals or ages.
  • Identify and prevent common errors such as division‑by‑zero and rounding issues.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Computer with a database program (e.g., Microsoft Access)
  • Sample sales database file
  • Worksheet with practice questions
  • Handout of arithmetic operators and numeric functions
  • Whiteboard and markers
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick question: “How many times do you manually add totals in a spreadsheet?” Connect this to students’ prior experience with spreadsheets and explain that databases can automate these calculations. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to create reliable calculated fields and controls and check their work for common errors.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – Students list situations where manual calculations cause mistakes; share responses.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Review arithmetic operators and numeric functions; show examples on the projector.
  3. Demonstration (15’) – In Design View create a calculated field “NetAmount” using UnitPrice, Quantity, and Discount%; discuss syntax.
  4. Guided practice (15’) – Students add a calculated control “Running Total” to a provided invoice form and test updates.
  5. Independent practice (10’) – Complete worksheet: write expressions for average marks, tax‑added pay, and prevent divide‑by‑zero.
  6. Review & Q&A (5’) – Recap key steps, address misconceptions, and answer questions.
Conclusion:
Summarise how arithmetic operators and functions empower databases to calculate values automatically and how calculated fields and controls keep data current. Ask each student to write one new calculated field expression on an exit ticket. For homework, students will design a simple inventory table with at least two calculated fields of their choice.