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(1) Making projections: A spreadsheet program stores and calculates information in a structured array of data cells. By defining relationships between information in cells, a user can see the effects of data changes on other data in the spreadsheet (see tutorial). Spreadsheets are "number crunchers" and are useful when ever teachers or students need to perform numerous calculations.

Both students and teachers should be able to perform "what-if" analyses to project budgets, grades or other numeric values. Analyze the sample family budget and make reasonable recommendations to balance the budget should one of the wage earners lose their job. Include a printout of your balanced budget.

(2) Graphing and interpreting data: One of the most important analytical skills for students is the ability to read and interpret graphs. Fortuantely, spreadsheet programs can graph data and provide opportunities for analysis and discussion.

Create two or more different types of graphs (chart) from spreadsheets related to your discipline. Make sure the graph is meaningful and is fully and correctly labeled. Copy the graphs into the portoflio. Write two or more questions (and provide answers) for each graph.

(3) Creating a spreadsheet for your subject:

Create a new spreadsheet or a new worksheet in an existing spreadsheet file. Your worksheet should include a variety of useful calculations based upon cells in your new worksheet and/or associated ones in your modified spreadsheet file. Include a printout of your new spreadsheet in your portfolio and describe the purpose of your spreadsheet and describe how you would use it in your class.