What?

Spreadsheets can be used for more than organising data into columns and rows. You might have used formulae and formatting to manipulate the data in a spreadsheet but it is also possible to combine simple techniques to make mini programs – for example, simple games.

Why?

The techniques in this quick tutorial can be used at a variety of levels. You can set up a simple game for younger children but older children will also be able to learn quickly how the game is made and will be able to develop their own ideas – which will, of course, be much better than mine!

It can be a great introduction to some of the key, basic concepts of programming and logic.

How?

Here is the Google spreadsheet I have created – feel free to use it as you wish but it would be better if you didn’t remove the formulae/conditional formatting as others might like to look at these after you – thanks!

Double click the cell with the question mark, fill in your answer and then press return to see if you are right.

It’s not the most complex game in the world but children can set the correct answer and the description of the animal so there’s some scope for language work. Also, as this is a computer programme, the spelling has to be correct to get the answer right.

I’m sure this gives you many ideas for developing your own versions. So how is it done? Here’s a quick screencast explaining what’s going on:

Here’s the first one of the two simple techniques explained:

Here’s the second technique:

Back to the guess the animal spreadsheet to see how these techniques are used:

So now you should be able to make all sorts of much more interesting games and programs with these two simple techniques. I’d love to see what you – or your  pupils – come up with!