MathHappens had the privilege of presenting a hands-on session at the 2025 Summer Institute for Teachers hosted by the National Museum of the Pacific War. Elizabeth Wrightsman facilitated a workshop called “Ciphers, Cannons, and Cargo: A WWII Math Adventure.” It invited educators to explore how mathematics played a crucial role in shaping critical moments in the Pacific Theater during World War II through immersive, classroom-ready activities. The goal? To show that math isn’t just equations and procedures; it’s logic, strategy, and problem-solving woven into the fabric of real-world events.
Station 1: Crack the Code. At this station, teachers stepped into the role of WWII codebreakers, using Caesar ciphers to decode secret communiqués. They practiced modular arithmetic and logic as they deciphered historically themed messages, such as “Loose lips might sink ships.” With cipher wheels in hand and a WWII context at their fingertips, participants explored how simple math tools were used for complex wartime communication.
Station 2: Fire for Effect! Here, teachers launched mini “artillery” using foam pom-poms and balloon-powered cannons to explore the math behind projectile motion. Using data collection sheets, they tested different angles and distances, modeling trajectories and applying concepts of parabolas and quadratics, all through an engaging physical model. Laughter and experimentation filled the room as teachers refined their aim.
Station 3: Supply Chain Strategy. In our final station, participants were tasked with solving a WWII logistics challenge. Each team selected a mission, such as resupplying troops or supporting a forward base, and had to choose from a supply menu of items, each with an assigned weight and volume (crate count). They used mathematical reasoning to stay within cargo limits while ensuring that critical supplies made it to their destination. This station encouraged strategic thinking and sparked rich conversations about real-world problem solving.
What Teachers Said. The feedback from educators was overwhelmingly positive. Many brainstormed ways to collaborate across subject areas, pairing math lessons with social studies and STEM.
Takeaways. This workshop reinforced something we deeply believe at MathHappens: math is everywhere, and it’s for everyone. By connecting mathematical thinking to meaningful stories and hands-on experiences, we create pathways for deeper understanding and greater engagement. We’re so grateful to the educators who joined us for this workshop and to the National Museum of the Pacific War for hosting such a thoughtful and enriching institute. We left inspired, and it seems the teachers did too.