Lesson Plan

Crack the Code Lesson Plan

Students will solve two-step addition and subtraction word problems and represent them as equations with an unknown, with the goal of uncovering a secret code.

This lesson boosts problem-solving skills and builds confidence in math by engaging students in a fun, interactive challenge aligned with curriculum standards.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Preparation

5 minutes

Step 1

Introduction & Warm-Up

5 minutes

Step 2

Main Activity: Code Cracking Challenge

15 minutes

Step 3

Cool-Down & Reflection

5 minutes

Slide Deck

Welcome to the Secret Code Challenge!

This slide introduces the challenge. The teacher can use this slide to build excitement and explain that each word problem they solve will reveal a part of a secret code.

How Does It Work?

Explain the two-step word problem concept briefly. Emphasize that each word problem will be transformed into an equation with an unknown value.

Example Problem

Provide an example word problem on this slide. Walk through the steps to solve and highlight how to identify the unknown.

Your Turn!

Encourage students to work together or attempt the problems on their own. Remind them that every solved problem reveals a digit or letter of the secret code.

Great Job!

This final slide serves to bring the session to a close. Invite students to share the secret code they discovered and discuss the problem-solving process.

Lesson Plan

Crack the Code Lesson Plan

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Preparation

Step 1

Introduction & Warm-Up

Step 2

Main Activity: Code Cracking Challenge

Step 3

Cool-Down & Reflection

Slide Deck

Welcome to the Secret Code Challenge!

How Does It Work?

Example Problem

Your Turn!

Great Job!

Warm Up

Activity

Cool Down

Can You Crack the Code?

Bob Ruuska