Problem Teachers' Notes Hint

This activity enables pupils to use some simple counting in addition and subtraction situations. It also starts pupils thinking about codes and the fun that can be had with them.

The activity can be started off as a game in which the teacher says something about some secret ideas/thoughts they are having when looking at the alphabet. So, with the alphabet displayed as separate cards in order in front of the pupils they say they want to spell out (eg dog) but carefully goes for g r j instead of d o g.This will obviously lead to some discussiion. Perhaps other examples will be needed until the "rule" is extablished.

What do you think has happened?

What letters will you choose?

I see you've made your own code, can you tell me about it?

Go along to "Secret Codes" .

Some children will need the alphabet individually in front of them.