4b Variable, formulae, rules, functions *

Question 0

Explain how variables and functions could be used in the spreadsheet model.

Answer 0

2 for variables, 2 for functions. Max 1 for example for each.

Variables:
Identifier for values which change (1) eg number of days not trading (1)
All cells could be locked except the variables (1) users cannot break the model
(1)
Example (max 1)

Functions:
Built in calculation (1) such as adding up moving costs (1)
Refers to variables (1)
Examples (max 1)

Question 1

The airline uses a spreadsheet to work out the wages for its employees.

(a) Describe how variables and functions could be used in the spreadsheet.

Answer 1

2 from, 1 function, 1 variable, 1 for identification, 2nd for expansion/example/exemplification eg:

Variable
Used to hold a value used elsewhere in the spreadsheet/ can be a cell reference / or named (1) such as pay per hour/ example of use relating to wages (1)

Function
Built in calculation/reserved word (1) example of use relating to wages (1)

Question 2

Explain, using examples, how functions and formulae could be used when creating the spreadsheet model.

Answer 2

Two marks for each. 1st for how can be used, 2nd for example:

Function
Built in commands/complex formulae (1) eg max amount hired per month (1)

Formulae
Calculations/typed in by the user (1) eg multiple hours by hourly cost (1).
[4]

Question 3

Explain, using an example, how rules could be used in the spreadsheet model of the expansion of the business

Answer 3

4 from e.g:
Rules can be used to develop functions (1) and use variables to answer questions (1) such as employee bonus depending on number of sales (1)
Rules could be used to link relationship between cost and sale price (1) so that the company can see the effect of raising prices (1)
Different size shops can be looked at to see the potential sales (1) and determine if the purchase is viable (1)