Spy School-Secret Agent Code Academy
Welcome to Spy School! Master the Caesar Cipher, Pigpen Cipher, and Polybius Square in this class. Each lesson sharpens your problem-solving skills, and ends in an escape room where you apply your knowledge to escape!
Aaron Toler
Average rating:
4.8
Number of reviews:(896)
What's included
3 pre-recorded lessons
3 weeks
of teacher support1 year access
to the contentHomework
1 hour per week. At the conclusion of each class, students will be prompted to complete the escape room that focuses on the code of the day. These can typically be done in 15-20 minutes.Certificate of Completion
1 after class completionClass Experience
US Grade 4 - 7
Beginner Level
What will be taught? In Spy School, students will learn the fascinating art of cryptography through exploration of three classic ciphers: the Caesar Cipher, the Pigpen Cipher, and the Polybius Square. They will gain a deep understanding of how each cipher works and how to apply them to create and decode secret messages. Each lesson culminates in an exciting escape room challenge where students must use their newfound skills to solve puzzles and secure their escape. The course includes: Hands-on Activities: Practical exercises to reinforce learning. Final Challenge: An escape room activity where students apply all the skills they've learned. My teaching approach includes: Interactive Lectures: Explanations and demonstrations of each cipher. Visual Aids: Use of slides to illustrate concepts. Practical Exercises: Hands-on activities where students practice encoding and decoding messages. Games and Challenges: Fun activities and puzzles to keep students engaged and motivated. My teaching style is interactive and student-centered, focusing on making learning fun and engaging. My goal is to create a supportive environment where every student feels confident in their abilities.
Learning Goals
Master Three Essential Ciphers: Understand and proficiently use the Caesar Cipher, Pigpen Cipher, and Polybius Square to encode and decode messages.Develop Problem-Solving Skills: Apply logical thinking and analytical skills to solve cryptographic puzzles and challenges.
Syllabus
3 Lessons
over 3 WeeksLesson 1:
Let's Caesar Opportunity & Learn this Code
Step into the world of ancient Rome and discover the secrets of the Caesar Cipher! In this first class, we'll unravel the mystery behind one of the oldest and simplest encryption techniques used by Julius Caesar himself. You'll learn how to shift letters to create secret messages and decode them like a true spy. With plenty of practice, you'll master the art of the Caesar Cipher and be ready to send and receive covert communications. Lesson 2:
The Pigpen Cipher
Dive into the world of secret symbols with the Pigpen Cipher! This week, you'll uncover the intriguing system of geometric shapes that have been used by spies for centuries. You'll learn to encrypt and decrypt messages using this mysterious cipher. With hands-on practice, you'll quickly master the Pigpen Cipher, transforming ordinary letters into enigmatic symbols. Join us for an exciting session that will challenge your mind and enhance your cryptographic skills! Lesson 3:
The Polybius Square
Unlock the secrets of the Polybius Square! This lesso, you'll explore the ingenious grid-based cipher invented by the ancient Greek historian Polybius. You'll learn how to encode and decode messages using a simple yet powerful system of coordinates. With step-by-step guidance and plenty of practice, you'll become proficient in creating and deciphering Polybius Square messages. Get ready to expand your cryptographic toolkit and elevate your spy skills! Other Details
Parental Guidance
For the escape room I will be using a website called Thinglink. I created the webpage the students will be directed to and the students will not be sent anywhere else while in the escape room link.
Supply List
A handout will be provided for the students to use for each of the lessons. Students can print them out if they would like, but they can also just use a blank piece of paper.
4 files available upon enrollment
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Joined June, 2018
4.8
896reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Oklahoma Teaching Certificate in Social Studies/History
I love teaching! I am a National Board Certified Teacher. 3% of teachers in the United States have completed the coursework to receive this certification. I have a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Social Studies Education and a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction. I have taught in the classroom for 17 years and have taught online for the past 6 years. I have taught many different history subjects and love teaching students about technology! All students are welcome in my class.
I hope you will join my class and come learn with me! "Learn as if you will live forever"- Ghandi
Follow me on Instagram @OutSchoolAaron for other resources!Reviews
Self-Paced Course
$7
weekly or $20 for all content3 pre-recorded lessons
3 weeks of teacher support
Choose your start date
1 year of access to the content
Choose your start date
Ages: 9-13
