Lesson Plan

Resources → Subject Notes → Information Communication Technology ICT → Notes
Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Information Communication Technology ICT
Lesson Topic: Be able to use conditional formatting to change the display format depending on the contents of a cell
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe what conditional formatting is and its purpose in spreadsheets.
  • Identify appropriate rule types for common data scenarios.
  • Apply conditional formatting in Excel and Google Sheets to highlight cells based on value, text, dates, duplicates, and custom formulas.
  • Evaluate and adjust rule order to ensure correct formatting outcomes.
  • Explain exam expectations for conditional‑formatting tasks.
Materials Needed:
  • Computer with Microsoft Excel 365 or Google Sheets.
  • Projector and screen.
  • Worksheet with sample data sets.
  • Printed handout of step‑by‑step instructions.
  • Whiteboard and markers.
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick poll: who has used colour‑coding in spreadsheets before? Review how visual cues help spot trends and errors. Explain that today’s success criteria are to demonstrate conditional formatting in both Excel and Google Sheets and to justify the rule choices.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – Students examine a printed table and note where visual cues could improve readability.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Define conditional formatting, show rule types with examples on the projector.
  3. Guided demo – Excel (12’) – Walk through selecting a range, creating “greater than” and “less than” rules.
  4. Guided demo – Google Sheets (12’) – Replicate a date‑based rule and a duplicate‑highlight rule.
  5. Independent practice (15’) – Complete worksheet tasks (average colour‑code, duplicate codes, negative profit row, overdue dates).
  6. Check for understanding (8’) – Teacher circulates, asks students to explain rule order and absolute references; quick quiz on key terminology.
  7. Wrap‑up (5’) – Review key points and answer questions.
Conclusion:
Summarise how conditional formatting enhances data analysis without altering values. Students complete an exit ticket: write one new rule they could use in another subject. Assign homework to create a personal spreadsheet applying at least three different conditional‑formatting rules.