GAIN 3: Google Sheets

GAIN 3: Google Sheets


My Experiences with Google Spreadsheets:

• When I first began working on my spreadsheet, I tried using a grade book template that someone else had created.  Though the template looked professional, it was difficult for me to use because I did not know the equations that had been typed into the different cells.  I decided to make my own spreadsheet from scratch so that I could learn how to program the cells myself.  There were several things that I did not how to do, including writing different equations within my cells.  I had to look up instructions on how to do this from Google Support.
• The easiest part of the spreadsheet to master was manipulating the columns and rows.  It is very easy to add forgotten columns, or delete unwanted ones.  Merging columns is also a cinch, just by highlighting and pressing the merger button.  It is also very easy to change the size of various columns.
• There are still a few formatting things that are unclear to me.  I noticed on the template that some of the boxes were colored.  My spreadsheet looks very basic.  I will need some more instruction on how to make my spreadsheet look more professional.
• Here is the link to my own spreadsheet: https://goo.gl/uMYbo4

Spreadsheet as it Relates to Common Core:

• The Standards for Mathematical Practice for Common core are created to instill critical thinking skills in students when working with mathematics.  The standards are created to focus on how the student uses the mathematics and not just the knowledge that they acquire concerning a mathematical skill.  Students need to have not just a memorized skill or algorithm, but they must understand how the concepts are applied in order to succeed when they are thrust into a world of data analysis and decision making later in life.
• Google Spreadsheets allows students to not only record their data in a spreadsheet, but to use their charts and graphs to help to explain their evidence.  Instead of a software that provides mathematical solutions for the students, the students must provide the solutions themselves in order to make the spreadsheet work properly.
• By entering formulas and manipulating their own charts and graphs, students will be critically thinking about mathematical concepts and applying them in practical settings.  Students should be able to choose the right tool to help them conceptualize, share, and present their mathematical understanding.  Google Spreadsheets can help students to do all of these things.