Hector Research Institute of Education Sciences and Psychology

Secret Scripts

Course Goals

The course provides a basic understanding of writing as a means of communication and develops gross and fine motor skills in handling various writing materials. It also promotes a positive attitude toward writing, helps to overcome possible writing inhibitions, and fosters self-confidence in the creative use of language and symbols.

Course Content

In the course "Secret Scripts", children explore the fascinating history of writing as a means of communication and documentation. They learn basic principles of encryption – from simple monoalphabetic methods such as the Caesar shift to more complex polyalphabetic methods and transposition techniques. They engage with writing not only in a receptive way but also creatively and productively. Together, they decipher historical writing systems such as Ugaritic cuneiform and work with tools like the scytale staff and the Alberti cipher disk. A special highlight is the hands-on construction of a functional Morse apparatus, enabling them to send their own messages via a simple electrical circuit.

Inquiries and contact

Kristin Funcke

Tel.: 07071/29-76536

E-Mail: info-hkaspam prevention@hib.uni-tuebingen.de

Downloads (German only)