
KS3 Excel Lesson 3 – Fun Into Functions! Introduction to SUM, AVERAGE, MIN & MAX (Dyslexia-Friendly | High Engagement | Perfect Follow-On Lesson)
Bring Excel to life with this lively, student-friendly introduction to functions. Lesson 3 builds directly on the confidence pupils gained from basic “= calculations” and now shows them how to use Excel’s most popular functions in a fun, accessible and memorable way.
Designed with full dyslexia-friendly formatting — clear fonts, soft pastel backgrounds, spacious layout and colour-coded examples — this resource supports every learner, including SEND and lower-ability students.
What students will learn (Lesson 3):
- What a function is — Understanding how Excel can perform more complex maths automatically.
- Core beginner functions — Step-by-step guidance for:
- =SUM()
- =AVERAGE()
- =MIN()
- =MAX()
- Real examples, not abstract maths — Students total scores, average results, find the highest value, and compare results instantly.
- Strengthening modelling skills — Changing numbers shows how functions update the entire spreadsheet automatically.
- Formula building confidence — Pupils use brackets, ranges (e.g. A1:A5), and cell referencing with functions.
Why this resource sells well on TES:
- ✔ Fully dyslexia-friendly design – OpenDyslexic (or similar) font, pastel backgrounds, clean spacing, and clutter-free instructions support every learner.
- ✔ Fun, accessible angle – Keeps the playful tone from Lesson 2, turning formula work into something students enjoy.
- ✔ Perfect for mixed-ability classes – Clear examples, guided practice, extension tasks and minimal writing required.
- ✔ Ready-to-teach package – Includes teacher slides, printable worksheets, and an editable Excel file.
- ✔ Behaviour-proof tasks – Highly structured, step-by-step instructions keep students focused and successful.
By the end of this lesson, students can:
- Use SUM, AVERAGE, MIN and MAX to calculate values
- Apply functions using cell references and ranges
- Recognise real-world uses of functions
- Build early confidence in spreadsheet modelling and automation
Lesson 3 continues the series perfectly — moving from simple maths “cheats” to the powerful world of beginner Excel functions in a fun, accessible and fully inclusive way.
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