Introduction to Office 365

Overview

Level: Key Stage 2, Year 3
Curriculum Area: Computing - Information Technology
Duration: 6 Weeks
Class Size: 15 Pupils
Session Length: 60 Minutes per Session

Lesson Objectives

Over the course of the six weeks, pupils will:

1. Gain a foundational understanding of Microsoft Office 365.
2. Learn basic navigation and functions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
3. Develop confidence in using digital tools for school tasks.
4. Demonstrate how to create, save, and share documents.

Materials Needed

• Interactive Whiteboard
• Laptops/Computers for each pupil
• Pre-prepared Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Templates
• Printed handouts summarising each Office application
• Internet access

Week 1: Overview and Word Basics

Objective: Introduction to Office 365 and discovering Microsoft Word's interface.

1. Introduction (10 mins)

   • Explain what Office 365 is and its purpose.
   • Discuss how technology can aid in everyday school activities.

2. Demonstration (15 mins)

   • Show the Microsoft Word interface on the whiteboard.
   • Point out menu items, the ribbon, and navigation tools.

3. Hands-On Activity (25 mins)

   • Pupils open a template and practice basic skills: typing, changing fonts, and saving a document.

4. Reflection and Q&A (10 mins)

   • Discuss what was fun and what seemed challenging.
   • Encourage pupils to ask questions.

Week 2: Advanced Word Skills

Objective: Develop skills in formatting, inserting images, and using spell check.

1. Review Previous Lesson (5 mins)

   • Quick recap of Week 1's learning.

2. Guided Practice (10 mins)

   • Demonstrate how to format text: bold, italicize, underline.
   • Show how to insert images and use spell check.

3. Activity (30 mins)

   • Pupils format a simple story template, adding images and correcting spelling.

4. Sharing (10 mins)

   • Pupils present their stories in pairs.

5. Wrap-up (5 mins)

   • Reflect on new skills learned.

Week 3: Introduction to Excel

Objective: Understand the basics of Excel and how data entry and simple calculations work.

1. Introduction to Excel (10 mins)

   • Explain the purpose of spreadsheets.

2. Demonstration (15 mins)

   • Show how to enter data in cells.
   • Use a simple formula (e.g., summing numbers).

3. Hands-On Activity (25 mins)

   • Pupils create a basic spreadsheet: input data and perform a simple calculation.

4. Discussion (10 mins)

   • Share experiences and any difficulties encountered.

Week 4: Data Visualization in Excel

Objective: Learn to create and interpret simple charts.

1. Recap (5 mins)

   • Quick review of Week 3 concepts.

2. Demonstration (15 mins)

   • Show how to select data and create a basic chart.

3. Activity (30 mins)

   • Pupils enter data from a weather report and create a bar chart.

4. Reflection (10 mins)

   • Discuss the importance of visualising data.

Week 5: Introduction to PowerPoint

Objective: Understand PowerPoint's basic features and create a simple presentation.

1. Introduction to PowerPoint (10 mins)

   • Discuss the use of slideshows and presentations.

2. Demonstration (15 mins)

   • Show how to create slides, add text, and use transitions.

3. Hands-On Activity (25 mins)

   • Pupils create a three-slide presentation on their favourite animal.

4. Sharing and Feedback (10 mins)

   • Pair presentations and provide constructive feedback.

Week 6: Project and Review

Objective: Consolidate all learning into a collaborative project and review skills.

1. Group Project (40 mins)

   • Pupils work in small groups to create a simple report using Word, supported by charts in Excel and a PowerPoint summary.

2. Presentation (15 mins)

   • Groups present their projects to the class.

3. Final Reflection (5 mins)

   • Pupils reflect on what they've learned, sharing favourite aspects and potential future uses.

Assessment

Pupils will be assessed based on their participation, ability to follow instructions, creativity in their work, and progress over the six weeks.

Differentiation

• Support: Provide additional assistance and step-by-step guides for pupils who find the tasks challenging.
• Extension: Offer more complex tasks, such as creating a four-slide PowerPoint for advanced learners.

Additional Notes

• Encourage a positive attitude towards technology and highlight how these skills are useful beyond the classroom.
• Foster a collaborative atmosphere, allowing students to assist each other when difficulties arise.

By facilitating these lessons, teachers will be equipping pupils not only with essential computing skills but also instilling confidence in using technology creatively and critically.