Spreadsheets

This is a review of a 2nd grade spreadsheet integration presentation titled "Do larger pumpkins have more seeds?"
http://edtech.boisestate.edu/elearn/newbridges/cds/Oliverpumpkins/pumpkinstitlepage.htm

Students listen to directions and weigh their pumkins, then predict which group's pumpkin will have the most seeds. After looking at , smelling, and feeling their pumpkin, students remove seeds and begin counting. One student suggested counting by groups of 10 to make counting easier. The pumpkins are all different sizes and shapes. After collecting their data, the groups enter their information into spreadsheets. The teacher, Mr. Oliver, is helping them keep track of their data and enter it correctly. They had four questions: 1)predict the weight, 2) how much did it weigh, 3) predict the number of seeds, 4) how many seeds were there?

Groups were able to talk with each other to figure out how different numbers were found. Mr. Oliver talked them through each part of their graphs to make sure they understand every element. Their conclusion is that this was a neat experiment and that although the biggest pumpkins don't always have the most seeds, but they did in this case.

This experiment was fun to watch, and would be engaging for students. By providing them a spreadsheet, they can focus on entering their numbers and seeing the results.

I am interested in teaching second grade, and this would be a fun project to do around November. This lesson includes social studies, math, English, science, and spelling, and is a great cross-curricular activity. Students need to learn computer skills at school, and this is an entertaining way for them to learn about more than just the internet. Some students will have more knowledge about computers, and those students should be used as a tool to help the other students so the responsibility isn't totally on the teacher. If this was for a higher grade, students could learn about making their own spreadsheets, then work on creating projects for the other students to complete. I am a firm believer in students contributing to the education process, and by having them create lessons for each other they will have a deeper understanding of their topic and of Excel as well.