The Einstein Code

Decode a hidden message using the math operation specific to each unit (e.g., fractions, equations, place value, percentages).

Locate factual answers within a nonfiction biography through direct reading and through code-cracking.

Identify key achievements and life events of eleven historical figures across science, exploration, civil rights, and the arts.

Assign a unit to match a current math topic — for example, the Charles Darwin unit uses percentages and the Marie Curie unit uses greatest common factor — so the code-cracking reinforces whatever operation students are already practicing.

The book's own directions note that the answer to each unit's first question can also be found directly in the biography text, so struggling students can use that question as an entry point before tackling the rest of the code.

Remind students the codes can appear anywhere in the biography, since the book specifically warns readers to watch for anything unusual because a hidden code 'could be right before their eyes.'

Biographical reading comprehension — students read an illustrated nonfiction biography and answer factual questions about each figure.

Applied math decoding — the units use varied math skills (fractions, equations, percentages, place value, greatest common factor, and more) to decrypt hidden answers.

Cross-checking strategy — students learn to verify a directly-stated answer against its coded counterpart in the text.