Code Breaker (Break Out Style Activity) Blank Template

This is a fully editable template for a break out style activity that I call Code Breaker.

Pre-requisites: You will need at least 1 numerical combination lock and one regular lock (the master lock) and a box or even multiple boxes that you can use these locks on.

I made my own ‘Mystery Box’ which has 4 latches for 4 numerical locks. Then the whole thing is wrapped up with a chain and locked with the master lock - a key padlock.

I mostly use it for reviews in maths but it could be adapted for other subjects. There are so many possibilities with this. It does take a little time to setup but the children go wild for it every time!

The Setup:
a) Write questions which have a numerical answer.
b) Decide on which numbers will be part of the code for that numerical lock. For example, add all the answers together and the last three digits of that result are the code. (This is for a three digit numerical lock).
c) Change the code on the numbered lock to match.
d) Write a short phrase for the master lock using numbers.

Usage:
a) Fill the box with random treasures. I usually put in some cool erasers and other stationery as well as several packs of crisps or sweets and a whole bunch of fake money.
b) Split the class into teams and provide each with a sheet for a lock. Start the timer.
c) Children then solve the code and then and open their particular lock.
d) Those that solve their lock first can start working on the master lock phrase. After telling you the correct phrase, you can provide the key. *Sometimes I don’t let them get the master lock sheet until after all the other numerical locks have been opened. *

Notes:
The master lock page has a large image of a lock on it which obscures parts of the code, thus making it a bit more difficult. Also, each letter has four potential numbers to choose from which also adds to the difficulty in cracking a code.

You can also make cracking the codes for the numerical locks more difficult by adding more operations on the end. For example, you could use an equation for the letters of each question and then depending on the result you could say that the code is only made up of odd numbers.

You can also make questions which don’t have numerical answers by having a simple text to number cypher. The most basic would be to correlate the letters of the alphabet to the number in which they appear. For example, A=1, B=2 etc.
If the answer is say, Holland, you could write a short note saying second letter so the children know what to look for and convert into a number.

*I hope my explanations are clear, but if not, please feel free to message me or comment. It’s very worthwhile setting this up and once you have the templates filled in, you can reuse them each year as I do. *