Hoopin’ to Morse Code

IMG_1962Navajo Code Talkers

Ojibwe Code Talkers

Code Talkers from 25 Tribes

The Morse Code was developed by Samuel F.B. Morse in 1844. Even after more than 160 years, it is still used today, especially by amateur radio operators. The code can be sent quickly over the telegraph, and is also useful for emergency signaling (SOS) with a radio, mirror, or flashlight, and even for people with severe disabilities to communicate. In order to master Morse code, however, you need to approach it like a new language.

For this project we will create a hula hoop that has a 4 meter long (400 cm) circumference. Based on a phrase that “gets you through the day” *determine the pattern in Morse Code. The phrase will need to fill at least 200 cm – the number of spaces needed to create a Morse code (repeating) pattern around the hoop.

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The hoop is made from 3/4″ black weeper pipe. The pattern will be made from different colored electrical tape which is 2 cm wide.

*Check with Ms. Olson to be sure your phrase will work for this project before working out pattern.

http://www.wikihow.com/Learn-Morse-Code