Navajo Code Talkers in World War II
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Objective
I can analyze the strategic importance of Navajo code talkers in World War II.
Part 1 of 4
Warm-up video
Bedtime History · 9:59
We don't generate video — this one is by Bedtime History on YouTube. The practice questions and exit ticket below were drafted by AI for this objective, and every question is editable in the teacher guide.
Part 2 of 4
Key concepts
3 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.
Part 3 of 4
Practice
8 questions
Before the Navajo code talkers, what Native American language did the U.S. military use for codes in World War I?
Why was the Navajo language considered ideal for creating a military code during World War II?
Part 4 of 4
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.”
Sample answer included in the free materials
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