How to use Google Sheets with Elementary Students

One of the best thing about using Google sheets is that everything is automatically saved and you do not have to worry about the loss of your data. You can also format the data, insert charts, tables and formulas.

Description

Google Sheets is a spreadsheet program offered by Google. It is available as a mobile, web and desktop application and is compatible with MS office. Google sheets allow its users to create and edit spreadsheets by using their mobile phone or computer. It also allows its users to collaborate with other people on spreadsheets.

You can work on Google sheets from anywhere. Even if you are offline, you will still be able to work on your spreadsheets anytime. If you are working in a team, your team members can add comments to the spreadsheet and you can also respond to those comments. One of the best thing about using Google sheets is that everything is automatically saved and you do not have to worry about the loss of your data. You can also format the data, insert charts, tables and formulas.

How Google Sheets Works

Before we get started with Google sheets, it is important to know a few terminologies:

Cell: A cell is a single element in Google Sheets.

Range: A specific selection of elements or cells.

Column: A vertical line of cells.

Row: A horizontal line of cells.

Let’s get started with the Google sheets. Here’s how you can create a spreadsheet:

Go to sheets.google.com in your web browser or open the Google sheets app.
Under the file tab, click on “new” button.
Click on “Google Sheets”.
Now, click on “File” and then click on “New Spreadsheet” button.
Select “Blank” or a template of your choice.
Now, a new spreadsheet will appear. Here is how you can fill it with data:
Select any cell in which you’d like to enter data.
Type anything that you want.
Once done, press ‘enter”.

Tips:

If you want to move a single cell in a specific direction, use arrow keys.

Once you are done typing in a cell, you can also press the tab key and the data will be saved.

If you want to jump on a specific cell, simply click on that cell.

If you don’t want to write anything manually, you can also use the feature of copy and paste.

Using Google Sheets with elementary students

There are many creative and fun ways to use Google sheets with your elementary students. The best way by which you can introduce them to Google sheets is creating a pixel art:
*Ideas are inspired by members of the Technology Teacher Tribe Facebook Group

Creating a Pixel Art

Creating a pixel art is a fun and interesting way to use Google sheets for educational purpose. Here is how you can do it:

First, resize the columns to make them square-shaped. To do this, just select the columns and shrink the size of cells by squeezing column indicators.

Once done, select a cell and fill it with color by using the paint can option in the toolbar.

To fill multiple cells with the same color, click on a cell and drag the square handle.

Remember that Google sheets are designed for collaboration. Encourage your students to collaborate with each other to create fun and interesting pixel art. This will not only encourage critical thinking but it will also be an engaging and challenging activity. Pixel art can be used for mapping, creating characters, tech skills, and so on.

5 lessons for any beginner Google Sheets user. By the end of the 5 lessons students should be able to open a blank Sheets template and create charts, graphs, and use formulas as well as manipulate the column and row sizes.

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