Lesson Plan
Cipher Code Lesson Plan
Students will collaboratively decode literature excerpts using historical and mathematical cipher techniques to strengthen problem-solving, analytical, and literacy skills in a 45-minute session.
This lesson integrates math, history, and literacy through engaging puzzles, fostering critical thinking, teamwork, and Tier 2 support for students needing targeted challenges.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Teacher Preparation
15 minutes
Step 1
Introduction to Codebreaking
5 minutes
Step 2
Decode Challenge
20 minutes
Step 3
History Cipher Relay
10 minutes
Step 4
Strategy Share Discussion
5 minutes
Step 5
Review and Assessment
5 minutes
Slide Deck
Cipher Crash Course
What Is a Cipher?
Caesar Cipher
Vigenère Cipher
Simple Substitution (Atbash)
Key Takeaways
Worksheet
Activity
Discussion
Answer Key
