CLASS OBJECTIVE
Learn to use the symbols of basic arithmetic operations to solve everyday mathematical problems, using a spreadsheet.ARITHMETIC OPERATORS
One of the main purposes of a spreadsheet is obviously the use of mathematics for problem solving. Therefore, it is essential that you learn to use the basic arithmetic operators, that is, to add, subtract, multiply and divide in Google Sheets.
In any spreadsheet we can do operations with numerical data and with cell names (cell references). In this second case, the calculation will be made with the content of the mentioned cells. For example, = A1 + B1 means that the contents of cell A1 will be added with the contents of B1, as long as they’re numeric data.
Equal sign (=)
In the spreadsheet, the “equals” sign tells the program to execute an instruction, therefore it always has to be the first sign in the cell. When finishing the introduction of the operation and pressing “enter” the result will appear immediately.
Addition (+) and subtraction (-) signs
As in math, we will use the cross to add and the dash to subtract.
Here I show you some examples.
= 5 + 7
= A1 + B2 + C3
= 50-C3
= B5-B6
Multiplication (*) and division (/) signs
As you will see, these symbols change in a spreadsheet. To multiply we will use the asterisk and to divide we will use the diagonal.
Here I show you some examples.
= 3 * 9
= A4 * 5
= B4 / 3
= C1 / 4
Number formats
Some numbers have to change their appearance with some extra symbols, for example more decimal places or the pesos sign. In the toolbar you will find the buttons to change the format of the numbers.
In today's activity we’ll use the currency format so that the symbol ($) appears before the number.
ACTIVITY
For today’s activity it will be necessary to create the table that you see in this example, remember, it is not only the content, but also the correct design with the authorized modifications..
- When you finish the design and the formats you will have to solve, using formulas the symbols of the arithmetic operations, each of the mathematical problems that are requested: addition (+), subtraction (-), multiplication (*) and division (/).
