Productivity Suite

Party Planner Quests

13. Dig the Data

Introduction

This Party Planner activity focuses on the use of spreadsheets, and starts with the basics assuming you know nothing about a spreadsheet, and will introduce you to more advanced features as you complete the party planning activity. Your teacher may choose Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, Office 365, or another 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 to learn basic spreadsheet vocabulary. 

If you went to the links you may have noticed that a program called Excel was mentioned. Microsoft Excel is a program that is used to create spreadsheets.  Google sheets, Office 365, and other spreadsheet applications have many similar features, so once you learn one, you will be able to use the others.

Special Note to Students: If you don't have access to Google Spreadsheets or Microsoft Office you can do these Quest activities using an application such as Calc in OpenOffice, iWork (Mac Suite), Free Spreadsheet or Numbers (iPad). The process is very similar across all of the applications.


Quest 1 Basics: The Party Planning Begins!

Imagine that you are going to have a celebration and you will be inviting people to your party. You could use a spreadsheet to keep track of who you invited and how many people are coming. The spreadsheet will do the calculations for you and help you to stay organized.  You will learn how to name a document and enter data, learn the difference between a cell, row, and column.

I am ready to plan the party in 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


Check off these Quests on the 21t4s roadmap

Go to Dig the Data Home Page

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.