Numbers2: IF function is true, then IF function is...

Excel, we meet again. And how fascinating are your intricate formulas. The IF function is a formula that allows the spreadsheet creator to check and see if certain conditions are true or false within the data. You can see my work below(using a screen capture through Jing) or click on this LINK to my Google doc drive.

As I was researching ways to easily enter this function (via Youtube and Excel Help), I was really interested in using this assignment with my students. Now, I do teach third grade, so this would be a HIGH level of technology development, but using the If Function is a great way to connect "cause/effect" and numbers within the classroom. When entering the formula, the teacher can describe the formula as follows:

=IF(I17>89,"A",IF(I17>79,"B",IF(I17>69,"C",IF(I17>59,"D","F"))))

Students as low as second grade can understand the definition of the < and > symbols. They've known it as comparing numbers alligators in my classroom all year. How practical for an elementary student to begin using Excel...not that this technology may be vintage by the time they enter the work force, but useful nonetheless.

FCPS uses a program called Gradequick to document and analyze student grades. This program automatically calculates each average by term and yearly total. This assignment made me realize that perhaps not every school district I choose to work in will have this luxury(although most have a gradebook-type system) and this function is extremely helpful.

Completing this assignment addressed the following 3 ISTES for teachers: 3a, 3d, and 5c. I feel I most benefited from 5c-making effective use of existing and emerging digital tools to develop student learning. I think my students would truly benefit from a "Calculate Your Own Grade" activity using Excel.