Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 01/12/2025
Subject: Information Communication Technology ICT
Lesson Topic: Be able to replicate formulae using absolute and relative cell references where appropriate
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the difference between relative, absolute, and mixed cell references.
  • Explain why absolute references are required for constant values such as tax rates.
  • Apply relative and absolute references to copy formulas correctly across rows and columns.
  • Demonstrate the use of the fill handle to replicate formulas while preserving absolute references.
  • Identify and correct common errors when using cell references in spreadsheets.
Materials Needed:
  • Computer lab with Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets.
  • Projector and screen for teacher demonstration.
  • Printed worksheet containing the sample product table.
  • Quick‑reference cheat‑sheet of reference types.
  • Whiteboard and markers.
 Introduction:

Begin with a quick question: “What happens to a formula when you copy it to another cell?” Students share ideas, then the teacher outlines today’s success criteria – students will correctly use relative and absolute references to copy formulas and avoid common mistakes.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Students open a blank spreadsheet and list three products with quantity and unit price – no formulas yet.
  2. Mini‑lecture & demo (10'): Explain relative, absolute, and mixed references; demonstrate on the projector, showing the fill handle in action.
  3. Guided practice (15'): Students enter =B2*C2 in D2, copy down; add VAT rate in E1 and use =D2*$E$1 in F2, copy down. Teacher circulates to support.
  4. Collaborative check (10'): In pairs, students verify that the VAT column always references E1, discuss any errors and correct them.
  5. Extension activity (10'): Introduce a mixed reference scenario (e.g., commission rate fixed in a header) and have students apply it.
  6. Recap & Q&A (5'): Review key points, answer lingering questions.
Conclusion:

Summarise how relative references adjust and absolute references stay fixed when formulas are copied. For the exit ticket, each student writes one example where an absolute reference is essential. Homework: create a sales spreadsheet for five items, including total price, tax (using an absolute reference), and grand total.