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Grades K–2 · Language

How can two flags carry a letter?

Two flags can carry a message without a speaking voice. In semaphore, a person holds the flags in different places. Each agreed pattern can stand for a letter.

L29 visual explanationA signaler faces us. The selected letter is A. The left arm points down. The right arm points low. A reader must know the same flag code.Two flag places can stand for a letterABDown and lowDown and outBoth signalers face usA reader needs to know the same code

In the diagramTwo flag places can stand for a letterABDown and lowDown and outBoth signalers face usA reader needs to know the same code

A signaler faces the viewer. The A and B positions are shown together; the signaler’s right arm appears on our left.

The picture shows a signaler facing us. For A, one arm points down and the other points down to the side. For B, that second arm points straight out. Moving an arm changes the letter.

The flags do not spell by their colors alone. The reader must see their places and know the same code. Fog or a blocked view can hide the message.

About this explanation

Starting knowledge: Recognize up, down and out; understand that agreed marks can represent letters.

Sources

  • Australian National Botanic Gardens — Semaphore Flag Signalling System
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