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 data series
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe when a second data series is appropriate in a chart.
  • Demonstrate how to add a second data series using spreadsheet software.
  • Format and label a multi‑series chart correctly (legend, axis titles, colours).
  • Analyse a chart with two series to interpret trends and differences.
  • Identify and correct common errors when creating multi‑series charts.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Computer with spreadsheet program (Excel or Google Sheets)
  • Printed data handouts (product sales & museum visitor tables)
  • Worksheet with practice exercise and questions
  • Whiteboard and markers
 Introduction:
Imagine you need to compare the sales of two products over the same period on one chart. Students already know how to create a basic chart with a single data series, so we will build on that knowledge. Today they will learn when a second series is useful and how to add and format it correctly. Success will be shown by producing a clear, labelled chart that displays both series side‑by‑side.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Quick written task – list three real‑world situations where comparing two data sets on one chart is helpful.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Explain chart types that support multiple series and key points to remember (colours, legends, equal data points).
  3. Live demonstration (12'): Step‑by‑step adding a second series in a spreadsheet, including the “Select Data” → “Add” process.
  4. Guided practice (15'): Students use the provided product‑sales data to create a line chart with two series, following the demonstrated steps.
  5. Check for understanding (8'): In pairs, students answer three questions about trends and formatting in their charts; teacher reviews answers.
  6. Common mistakes review (5'): Highlight typical errors (missing labels, unequal lengths) and how to fix them.
  7. Exit ticket (5'): Write one step they found challenging and how they resolved it.
Conclusion:
We recap the importance of adding a second data series for effective comparison and review the key steps for creating and formatting such charts. Students complete an exit ticket to consolidate learning, and for homework they will create a line chart with two series using their own data (e.g., weekly temperatures vs. rainfall). This reinforces the skill and prepares them for upcoming IGCSE tasks.