Navajo Code Talkers in World War II

Navajo Code Talkers in World War II

Grade 10th Grade · Social Studies · 45 min

What's Included

Learning Objective

I can analyze the strategic importance of Navajo code talkers in World War II.

Warm-Up Video

Bedtime History · 9:59

Navajo Code Talkers: Secret Weapon of WWII | Simple History

Guided Notes

3 key concepts

  • 1

    During World War II, the US military needed a secret code to relay messages, and they chose Navajo because it is unwritten, has no alphabet, and is very difficult to understand.

  • 2

    The Navajo code talkers created a code by sometimes using original Navajo words and sometimes changing words; for example, the Navajo word for cat, 'mosi', was used to mean the letter 'c'.

  • 3

    The Navajo code talkers served in battles across the Pacific Islands, relaying thousands of messages and helping the US win the Battle of Iwo Jima.

Practice Questions

8 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

Quick comprehension check

Explain why the Navajo language was strategically effective as a code during World War II. Provide at least two specific reasons based on the video.

Complete Lesson Package

Get all 3 ready-to-use resources:

Teacher Guide
Student Doc
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