The Rosetta Stone is the key that was used to decipher the language behind hieroglyphics. The stone is three feet tall and two feet across, and was uncovered in 1799, but not officially deciphered until 1822. The stone still exists today, housed in the British Museum where it was placed after the Battle of the Nile was won by the British. This artifact can be taught in conjunction with ancient Egypt material and used as the basis of hieroglyphics activities.
Fourth graders can take advantage of learning their hieroglyphics by participating in puzzle solving or a crossword. Teachers can use the standard translation of hieroglyphs to create a crossword based on ancient Egypt where all or part of the words are done in symbols. The puzzle can be a challenge done individually or in a group and will help students learn to decipher the code to solve the puzzle just like linguists did for the Rosetta Stone. A similar option is to give words or phrases presented in hieroglyphs which students must then decipher using the key. The first group or individual to get it right earns a prize. These kinds of activities can be invaluable problem solving lessons, as well as demonstrate the importance of teamwork in solving problems.
If students could create their own language, what would they use? Would they read left to right or some other way? Let them study the hieroglyphics of ancient Egypt as well as our own alphabet so they can create their own. Have them make their own key so other students can decipher words or messages in each others' secret language. An added activity would be giving students paper, paint or clay to create their own version of the Rosetta Stone so that other students or classes can come along and solve the puzzle.
Teachers can arrange a scavenger hunt around the room or across campus to further study hieroglyphs. The game can start in the room with a clue and letter key. From there, students can decipher clues and words until they reach the end of the game, where they can find something as simple as a fact about Egypt or a little prize. This is another activity that can be done by groups, and can again demonstrate the importance of working together to solve the puzzle.