KS3 Excel Lesson 2 – Formulas & Cell Referencing (Free AI Marking, 2026)

KS3 Computer Science / ICT – Excel Lesson 2: Formulas & Cell Referencing
Fun, Practical Lesson | FREE AI Marking | Updated for 2026

A fun and practical KS3 Computer Science / ICT Excel lesson introducing students to basic spreadsheet formulas and cell referencing through the engaging theme of “Cheating at Maths!”.

Students learn how spreadsheets can automate calculations, reduce human error, and perform maths instantly by using formulas correctly.

UPDATED for 2026 – this lesson now includes FREE AI marking for written and explanation tasks. Students can receive instant feedback on their understanding, while teachers can quickly check progress and identify misconceptions without extra marking.

Students will learn how to:

• Use the = sign to perform basic operations (+ – × ÷)
• Apply cell referencing for accurate calculations
• Understand how spreadsheets automate maths problems
• Format cells and add borders for clear presentation
• Explain how formulas improve efficiency and accuracy

Included in this Download

• Editable student worksheet / booklet
• Linked Excel activities:
  • Cheating.xlsx
  • Referencing.xlsx
  • Challenge.xlsx
• Starter, main tasks, challenge activity, and plenary
• Step-by-step structure ideal for independent or teacher-led delivery
• FREE AI marking for selected explanation and reflection tasks

Why Teachers Choose This Lesson

• Engaging real-world hook that motivates reluctant learners
• Clear, scaffolded introduction to formulas and referencing
• FREE AI marking reduces workload and supports AFL
• Suitable for specialists and non-specialists
• Strong foundations for data modelling and spreadsheet projects
• Designed for mixed-ability KS3 classes

Perfect For

• KS3 Computer Science
• KS3 ICT / Digital Literacy
• Introduction to spreadsheets and formulas
• Cover lessons, homework, or skills-based computing lessons

Series Information
Part 2 of the 6-Lesson “Learning Excel” Series
Builds on Lesson 1 (Introduction to Spreadsheets) and prepares students for self-marking spreadsheet projects later in the unit.