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    Home » Science Experiments for Kids » Crack the Code – Pirate Theme

    Crack the Code – Pirate Theme

    February 7, 2015 By Emma Vanstone 1 Comment

    Welcome to the first in a series of fun PIRATE themed science investigations. First up is a bit of code cracking. Code cracking is brilliant for helping to develop logical thinking and you can make it as easy or as hard as you want depending on the age of a child. Last year my little boy had to crack a different code to find each birthday present, which he absolutely loved and has asked me to do again this year.

    I set up a pirate themed box complete with a message in a bottle. We made the paper look old by staining it with tea and drying in the oven for a few minutes.

    Image of a glass bottle with a paper message inside sat in a tub of shells.

    My 7 year old created a code using dots, lines and squares, then we used the shells to decode the message, one side had the code and the other the letter the code corresponded to. The idea was that the children look for the shells corresponding to the code on the paper and then work out the message.

    shells with a code on for a pirate themed activity
    shells wit a code written on the back for a pirate themed science activity

    You could further extend this activity by placing the shells in water and asking the children to fish for them.

    Sells with letters written on the back for a fun pirate and literacy activity

    What code would you make?

    Examples of Codes

    Replace each letter with  a number corresponding to its place in the alphabet.

    Reverse the Alphabet ( Z becomes A, A becomes Z etc )

    Move each letter one along ( A becomes B )

    Move each letter 2 places along ( A becomes C )

    More pirate activity ideas

    Can you write secret messages using lemon juice or white crayons?

    Learn about concentrations with our treasure map activity.

    Don’t forget I have lots of FREE printable experiment instructions you might like too!

    Fun pirate code activity for kids - crack the code to find the treasure. A great preschool science, maths or literacy activity
    Pirate themed code breaking activity for kids
    Crack the Pirate Code Activity

    Last Updated on July 14, 2021 by Emma Vanstone

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    Safety Notice

    Science Sparks ( Wild Sparks Enterprises Ltd ) are not liable for the actions of activity of any person who uses the information in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources. Science Sparks assume no liability with regard to injuries or damage to property that may occur as a result of using the information and carrying out the practical activities contained in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources.

    These activities are designed to be carried out by children working with a parent, guardian or other appropriate adult. The adult involved is fully responsible for ensuring that the activities are carried out safely.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Sarah

      February 08, 2015 at 7:40 pm

      Great idea! What a wonderful way to use some logic skills and have fun at the same time. Thanks for the post!

      Reply

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