Productivity Suite

Party Planner Quests

13. Dig the Data

Introduction

This Party Planner activity is designed to teach you how to use spreadsheets, starting from the basics and progressing to more advanced features as you work through the planning process. It assumes no prior knowledge of spreadsheets, making it beginner-friendly. Depending on your teacher's choice, you will use Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, or a similar spreadsheet program.

A spreadsheet is a tool that helps you manage data (enter, track, order, graph, chart, plan parties, budget your money, and much more).

What is a Spreadsheet?

Step 1. Read this article to find out what a spreadsheet is.
Step 2.  Practice the terms using Quizlet Flashcards to learn basic spreadsheet vocabulary. 

If you explored the links, you may have noticed a program called Microsoft Excel. Excel is a popular tool for creating spreadsheets. Other spreadsheet applications, like Google Sheets, share many similar features, so learning one makes it easier to use the others.

Play the video below to set the stage for our challenge of planning a birthday party.

Quest 1 Basics: The Party Planning Begins!

Learn how to name a document and enter data, learn the difference between a cell, row, and column.

 I am ready for Quest 1

Quest 2: Format, Insert & Merge

Learn how to format your spreadsheet: add a border, highlight cells, change alignment, wrap text, resize a cell, and format numbers 

Learn How to Insert a Row or Column & Merge Cells

I am ready for Quest 2

Quest 3: Formulas

Learn to make the spreadsheet calculate numbers for you!

I am ready for Quest 3

Quest 4: Make it Visual

Learn how to create a great looking chart for your information.

I am ready for Quest 4

Quest 5: Share It

Learn how to share your spreadsheet with a friend, your teacher,invitees...

I'm ready for Quest 5

MITECS - Michigan Integrated Technology Competencies

ISTE Standards•S

1. Empowered Learner
b. Build networks and customize their learning environments in ways that support the learning process
d. Understand the fundamental concepts of technology operations, demonstrate the ability to choose, use and troubleshoot current technologies, are able to transfer their knowledge to explore emerging technologies

2. Digital Citizen
a. Cultivate and manage their digital identity and reputation and are aware of the pemanence of their actions in the digital world
c. Demonstrate an understanding of and respect for the rights and obligations of using and sharing intellectual property

6. Creative Communicator
c. communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively by creating or using a variety of digital objects such as visualization, models or simulations
d. Publish or present content that customizes the message and medium for a variety of audiences

Common Core Standards

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.L.1 Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.L.2 Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.W.4 Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.