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Matthew Parker’s Decoder #2013-11

Baffled by the blocks in the November issue? Here they are again:

Matthew Parker's Decoder -- November '13

How It Works

This is actually a substitution code (A=1, Z=26, etc.) in disguise. Each colored square is worth a certain value (white boxes=0):

Matthew Parker's Decoder -- November '13

Add up the values within each 2-by-2 block (colors are always shown highest-to-lowest value), then convert the total to the corresponding letter.

Matthew Parker's Decoder -- November '13

Here is the entire alphabet:

Matthew Parker's Decoder -- November '13

Code-writer’s tip: If you choose a different set of colors for your version of the code, include the letters O and Y in your message so your partner can see how much each color is worth.

Once you’ve mastered the binary blocks code, crack this extra message:

Matthew Parker's Decoder -- November '13

Click here for the solution.

Look for a new decoder in the next issue of Clubhouse magazine.

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Every month, Focus on the Family Clubhouse magazine features fun crafts and recipes for children ages 8-12. More than 80,000 families use the Christ-centered stories, quizzes and puzzles to help their kids learn about and grow closer to Jesus.