OCR AS ICT Unit 1 Chapter 4

?
  • Created by: Sqd3
  • Created on: 18-04-14 11:55

Chapter 4 - Modelling

Types of Modelling:

  • Modelling of Objects:
    • Creates a virtual representation - Model large items (e.g. building) and look at them from different external factors. (e.g. surface and environment).
    • View different layers - E.g. exterior and interior.
    • What-If questions can be asked - Components can be changed to see how it reacts.
  • Mathematical Modelling:
    • Based on functions and formulae - Allows the input of numbers into spreadsheets and for any changes to be automatically recalculated.
    • Use of Graphs - To spot trends in data.
    • Based on rows and columns - Items are laid out in a logical format and leads to sequencing and replication.
    • What-if questions can be asked - User can change variables/values and see what the effect would be on the end result.
1 of 7

Chapter 4 - Modelling

Why computer modelling is used:

  • Less Risk, safer and cheaper to test a model than to create it in reality and test it.
  • One model is created - a real model would would cost time and money (due to alterations).
  • Can be backed up and shared.
  • Can be sped up/slowed down.
2 of 7

Chapter 4 - Variables, Rules & Functions

  • Variables:
    • Identifier associated with a particular cell that contains a value (that can change)
    • e.g. a cell reference, name. 
    • The value within the variable is used in a function/formula
  • Formulae:
    • An expression that allows calculations to be represented in a spreadsheet.
    • It uses numbers, cell addresses and mathematical operators.
    • If cells in the formula change then the formula will recalculate in response to the change.
  • Rules:
    • Set of procedures that must be followed
    • Can also be the sequence of events required for the calculation to work.
  • Functions:
    • Predefined, complex formulae that represent standard routines used to perform common tasks e.g. SUM, MAX, MIN, AVERAGE etc
3 of 7

Chapter 4 - 'What-If?' Questions

'What-if?' questions are an attempt to find out what will happen in the future. Calculations are done within the spreadsheet or data model to help answer them.

How a data model answer 'What-if?' questions (Advantages):

  • Models can automatically recalculate data.
  • Unlimited number of 'what-if' questions can be asked.
  • Custom interfaces can be built to increase usability.
  • Time and cost are reduced as physical models could be costly.
4 of 7

Chapter 4 - Components of Spreadsheets

Workbook: A set of linked worksheets in the same spreadsheet. (Use: To divide and organise data into different categories between the sheets.)

Worksheet: A grid of cells on a single sheet. (Use: To hold data on a single area of a business.)

Row: A horizontal group of cells. (Use: To organise data)

Column: A vertical group of cells(Use: To organise data)

Cell: An individual data store uniquely identified by a column and row indicator. (Use: Can be formatted (e.g. colour) and protected (to prevent altered data)).

Range: A group of cells that can be given a name or identified by their cell references. (Use: To contain similar data).

5 of 7

Chapter 4 - Cell Referencing

Absoloute Cell Referencing - When the cell referenced in a formula remains the same when the formula is copied to other cells.

  • Achieved by adding "$" before the column letter and row number. E.g. $A$2

.

Relative Cell Referencing - When the cell reference in a formula changes when the formula is copied to other cells.

6 of 7

Chapter 4 - Spreadsheets to run simulations

Computer Model - Comprises a set of data about something and a set of rules that control what the data does.

Advantages:

  • Automatic recalculation - A change in the cells then all formulae and values change.
  • Graphs can be produced - Automatically change as any values change.
  • "What-If?" questions can be asked.
  • Quicker and cheaper than real life models.

.

Disadvantages:

  • It can be time-consuming to produce.
  • May not be an accurate representatoin of the real world.
  • Some variables may be hard to represent in a spreadsheet and some missed out.
7 of 7

Comments

No comments have yet been made

Similar ICT resources:

See all ICT resources »See all Spreadsheet Concepts resources »