Building the Distance Formula in Spreadsheets
by Emily Bogusch
Students will build the distance formula in a spreadsheet to create a sort of "calculator." Students begin by comparing standard math notation with spreadsheets, then practice programming simple math functions. Students then create a "Pythagorean Theorem" calculator. They then build on this understanding to determine the distance between two points.
This lesson is intended for students who are already familiar with both the Pythagorean Theorem and the distance formula. The goal is to learn how to manipulate values and formulas in spreadsheets, as well as improve understanding of the distance formula.