Spreadsheet Lab Manual
​ Data Analysis. Quantitative Modeling. Coding.
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Spreadsheet Lab Manual is a fully remote, educator-built platform for teaching spreadsheet-based computational modeling across all STEM subject areas.
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 Used in high school, community college, and university classrooms nationwide.
Built by Educators
Established in 2008 and reorganized annually, Spreadsheet Lab Manual is a Professional Learning Community created by practicing STEM educators.
​Evidence-Based & Tested
Every lesson has been delivered to real student groups with known outcomes and refined through classroom practice.
​Spreadsheet-First Coding
Students program spreadsheet models from a blank sheet, then experiment with the models they build.
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Low Barrier, High Impact
Requires only Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. No special software. No coding background required.
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Teacher time is valuable!  PD hours invested in professional learning with SLM helps communities achieve a milestone STEM education evolution:

To realize the value added of the modern microprocessor for STEM learning.





​How Spreadsheet Modeling Works
Step 1: Model Development
Students code a quantitative model on a spreadsheet using guided, concise procedures.  (easy to observe performance based assessment)

Step 2: Experimentation & Analysis
Students interact with their model by changing variables, running simulations, and observing graphical outputs. (student engagement)
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Step 3: Inquiry & Discovery
Students investigate predictions, explore content, and draw conclusions aligned to NGSS Science & Engineering Practices.

This process accelerates internalizes students question and answer with an upgraded computational rate offered by the coded model. 
Objective:
SWBAT practice all 8 SEPs in one lesson (NGSS Science and engineering practices) in a every SLM lesson module. 
SLM helps teachers realize spreadsheet fluency, increases capacity to mathematically reason by accelerating computational rate exponentially. This turns spreadsheets into the most powerful engagement and learning tool. 
Why Spreadsheet Modeling?
Coding a spreadsheet is mathematical automation. Simple formulas can model complex, continuously changing phenomena. This allows students to experiment, visualize, and make sense of math naturally.
  • Automates calculations so students can focus on meaning
  • ​Enables inquiry-based experimentation
  • Produces immediate numerical and graphical feedback
  • ​​Builds real-world data fluency
​Why a PLC?  Membership growth and engagement inspires new ideas and benefits of shared perspective, contributing to ongoing improvement and diversification.
One Platform. All STEM Disciplines.
Biology
  • Population models
  • Exponential and logistic growth
  • Predator–prey interactions
  • Genetics and allele frequency
  • Infectious disease modeling
        and more
Chemistry
  • Gas laws
  • Reaction rates and limiting reactants
  • Titration and pH modeling
  • Molar mass and percent excess
    and more
Physics
  • Motion with and without drag
  • Waves and interference
  • Circuits and Ohm’s Law
  • Gravitation and electrostatics
  • Rocketry and terminal velocity
    and more
Math
  • Linear, quadratic, and exponential models
  • Probability and simulations
  • Random number generation
  • Surface area and volume
  • Engineering applications
        and more

Excel and Google Sheets versions available for all modules.
40 Deliverable Spreadsheet Skills
Living graphs and XY scatter plots​
Formula writing and replication​
IF, SUM, MAX, MIN functions
Numerical methods (Euler, Trapezoid Rule)
Fixed and relative references
Random number generation​
Worksheet and model replication
Trigonometric and inverse functions
Goal seek for Excel & Sheets
Data analysis and large datasets
Vlookup and data automation
Key command shortcuts and more
Skills are distributed across the curriculum and tracked on PD certificates.
Professional Development That Saves Time


SLM content is available as both student-ready lessons and credentialed PD modules. Teachers can post, present, and proctor their own lessons with minimal prep time.  Modules naturally differentiate by student level and teacher capability with module grows with each subsequent usage.  

What’s Included:
  • Lesson plans
  • NGSS alignment
  • Introductory slide decks
  • Student handouts and assessments
  • Blank spreadsheet templates
  • Completed reference models
High-Value Learning, Not Extra Work

High value added learning accomplishes multiple skills at once: math, data literacy, computational thinking, and disciplinary content.

  • Naturally differentiated lessons
  • Rapid customization
  • Unlimited enrichment opportunities
  • Strong student engagement
  • Minimal teacher time investment

Recognized & Research Supported
  • NSF SBIR Phase I Award (1913560)
  • Harvard Virtual Workshop (Link)
  • AAPT National and Regional Conferences
  • Chicago Public Schools Googlepalooza
  • Tri-State Science Alliance Exhibitor (CT, RI, MA)
  • Chesapeake Area AAPT Presenter
 Learn More:   
Contents
NGSS Standards Alignment
​Spreadsheet Module Descriptions
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