Students are introduced to integer programming through practical problems in which they formulate decisions using 0-1 variables, by entering these integer variables into a decision matrix in a spreadsheet and manipulating the spreadsheet to evaluate alternative decision combinations. Activity sheets guide students step by step through the basic process. A 14-page resource for the teacher provides background to the lesson, describes extensions that include additional constraints, and poses real-life applications through case studies from businesses. Blackline masters, complete solutions to problems, and Internet extensions are also included. (author/sw)

The lesson can be used to teach financial planning and analysis, topics covered in the career-technical fields of Business & Administrative Services and Finance. Students compare investments and their returns using a spreadsheet. Determining which investments yield the highest return provides students with a practical approach to spreadsheet analysis and financial investment. The Part 1 questions introduce the "what-if" analysis. Students must set up formulas and functions in a spreadsheet and analyze which investment combinations will yield the highest return. The lesson can develop the student's decision-making skills and promotes problem-solving. Part 2 questions may have to be modified, particularly the ones that ask for math analysis, but overall the lesson provides learning opportunities on multiple levels. (jrs)