Morse Code!

Communication is a big skill for little scientists. In real life, scientists use a variety of methods to communicate science to the public including published papers, books, and conferences. We are going to practice communication skills through Morse Code.

Morse Code is a method of sending information through a series of pauses and taps. Each letter in the alphabet and every number corresponds to a unique series of pauses (—) and taps (•). This language is special because it can be produced with sounds like spoken languages as well as visual cues like flashes of light.

In this activity, we are going to use Morse Code as a method of communicating a message using both sound and light patterns!

Let’s Begin!

Learning Objectives/Opportunities

• Build basic knowledge about Morse Code

• Science process skills: observing, recording findings

• Developmental Skills: gross and fine motor skills, spelling

Materials:

• Flashlight

• Pencil

• Worksheet

Instructions:

1. Have students practicing receiving a Morse Code Message. Start with a simple word like a color or a name. Tap out the message with a pencil and have students record the taps and pauses. As a class, decode the message.

2. Now, let students practice writing in Morse Code by answering the prompts on the worksheet. Find the Morse Code equivalent for each letter and write it beneath each letter. For example, to the prompt what is your favorite color, students should have both the written version and the Morse Code equivalent shown here.

3. Next, have students practice Morse Code by tapping their pencils on their desks.

4. Once they feel comfortable, have students pair up and stand across the classroom from one another.

5. Have students transmit and decode their partner’s messages.

6. Try this activity with a flashlight. Have students cover the front of their flashlight with their palm and move it away to simulate the taps and pauses.

Add a little STEAM: Make Morse Code Bracelets!

Materials:

• String

• Beads (2 colors)

Instructions:

1. Write your name in Morse Code.

2. Select beads of two different colors, one to represent the taps and one to represent the pauses.

3. Place the beads in the order matching the Morse Code

4. Cut string long enough to make a bracelet

5. Knot one end of the bracelet to keep the beads on

6. Slip the beads on the string

7. Tie the two ends of the bracelet together around your wrist.

Gentle Disclaimer: Children must be supervised at all times by an adult during STEMSpark activities We may use materials or ingredients in our experiments that can stain surfaces or clothing, be messy, slippery, or choke-able. Please be careful and make sure no materials are put in the mouth and kept away from children under 3.