Spreadsheet Applications and Functions - SS2 Lesson Note
Subject: Computer Studies
Class: SS2
Topic: Spreadsheet Applications and Functions
Term: 2nd Term / 3rd Term (depending on your scheme)
Duration: 1 week
Lesson Objectives:
By the end of this lesson, students should be able to:
1. Define what a spreadsheet is.
2. Identify examples of spreadsheet applications.
3. State the uses of spreadsheet applications.
4. Explain basic spreadsheet features.
5. Identify and use common spreadsheet functions and formulas.
1. Meaning of Spreadsheet
A spreadsheet is a computer program (application) used to organize, analyze, and store data in rows and
columns. It looks like a table and is mainly used for calculations.
Each small box in a spreadsheet is called a cell. The cell is where you type data or a formula.
2. Examples of Spreadsheet Applications
- Microsoft Excel (by Microsoft)
- Google Sheets (by Google)
- LibreOffice Calc (by The Document Foundation)
- WPS Office Spreadsheets (by Kingsoft)
- Apple Numbers (by Apple Inc.)
3. Uses of Spreadsheet Applications
- Performing calculations (e.g., addition, subtraction).
- Creating budgets or financial records.
- Drawing charts and graphs.
- Recording and analyzing scientific data.
- Preparing time tables or duty rosters.
- Data sorting and filtering (arranging data in order).
4. Features of a Spreadsheet Application
- Cell: A box where you enter data; identified by its column letter and row number (e.g., A1).
- Row: Horizontal arrangement of cells; numbered (1, 2, 3 ).
- Column: Vertical arrangement of cells; labeled with letters (A, B, C ).
- Formula Bar: Where you see or enter formulas and functions.
- Worksheet: A single page in a spreadsheet file.
- Workbook: A collection of worksheets.
- Active Cell: The cell that is currently selected.
5. Spreadsheet Functions and Formulas
A. Formula
A formula is a user-defined instruction to perform calculations in a cell.
- It always starts with an equal sign (=).
- Example: =A1 + B1 adds the values in cells A1 and B1.
B. Function
A function is a pre-made formula provided by the spreadsheet software. It performs specific tasks easily.
Common Functions in Spreadsheet:
- SUM(): Adds numbers. Example: =SUM(A1:A5)
- AVERAGE(): Calculates average. Example: =AVERAGE(B1:B4)
- MAX(): Finds the highest number. Example: =MAX(C1:C10)
- MIN(): Finds the lowest number. Example: =MIN(C1:C10)
- IF(): Returns one value if a condition is true and another if false. Example: =IF(A1>50, "Pass", "Fail")
- COUNT(): Counts numeric cells. Example: =COUNT(D1:D10)
6. Practical Example
Student scores example:
Name | Math | English | Total
--------|------|---------|-------
Musa | 70 | 65 | =B2+C2
Amina | 85 | 90 | =B3+C3
Seyi | 60 | 75 | =B4+C4
Average for Math: =AVERAGE(B2:B4)
7. Benefits of Using Spreadsheet Applications
- Saves time when calculating large data.
- Reduces human error in calculation.
- Makes it easy to organize and analyze data.
- Automatically updates results when values are changed.
- Charts can be created easily from data.
8. Assignment / Class Work
1. List five examples of spreadsheet applications.
2. Differentiate between a formula and a function.
3. Write formulas to do the following:
- Add values in A1 and B1.
- Calculate average of B1 to B5.
- Find the highest value in C1 to C10.
4. Mention three benefits of using a spreadsheet.
