KS3 Excel Lesson 6 – Spreadsheet Mastery Project | Apply IF, COUNTIF & Conditional Formatting | Comp

KS3 Learning Excel – Final Project Challenge (Lesson 6 of 6)
Complete the series with a high-impact, project-based spreadsheet challenge.

This final lesson in the KS3 Learning Excel series gives students the opportunity to apply everything they’ve learned in a structured, real-world data modelling project. Learners bring together formulas, functions, logical operators, and formatting tools to design and build a fully functional spreadsheet model independently.

Perfect as an end-of-unit assessment, showcase lesson, or structured creative task.

What Students Will Do

Students will:

• Apply formulas and cell referencing accurately
• Use functions including SUM, AVERAGE, COUNT, COUNTIF
• Implement IF statements for logical decision-making
• Apply conditional formatting to highlight key outcomes
• Design a structured spreadsheet layout with headings and formatting
• Test and refine their model for accuracy
• Evaluate their work against clear success criteria

The lesson encourages independence, logical thinking, and attention to detail while reinforcing spreadsheet best practice.

What’s Included

Fully Editable PowerPoint (PPTX)
Structured using the Engage–Explore–Explain–Elaborate–Evaluate model:

• Clear project brief
• Step-by-step modelling support
• Scaffolded build-up tasks
• Independent challenge extension
• Reflection and evaluation prompts
• Success criteria checklist

Project Resources

• Spreadsheet project brief
• Modelling task instructions
• Extension challenges for higher-attaining students
• Evaluation and reflection questions
• Peer/self-assessment framework

Skills Consolidated

• Basic and advanced formulas
• Relative and absolute cell references
• Logical functions (IF statements)
• COUNTIF for conditional data analysis
• Conditional formatting rules
• Spreadsheet layout and presentation
• Data modelling principles

Ideal For

• KS3 Computer Science
• ICT / Digital Literacy
• Spreadsheet units
• End-of-topic assessment
• Cover lessons
• Evidence of progress for moderation

Why Teachers Choose This Lesson

• No preparation required – ready to teach
• Clear structure supports independence
• Differentiated challenge built in
• Encourages problem-solving and evaluation
• Strong cross-curricular links to maths and business
• Provides clear evidence of skills progression

Part of the 6-Lesson “Learning Excel” Series

This is Lesson 6 of a complete KS3 introduction to Excel covering:

1. Basic formulas
2. Functions
3. Formatting
4. Logical operators
5. Conditional formatting
6. Project-based application

A strong, practical conclusion that allows students to demonstrate genuine spreadsheet competence.