The Great Murdoch Escape

• Grade Level: 5 – 9
• Duration: 6+ Class Periods
• Subjects: English (Written and Oral Communication), History/Social Studies, Science (Inquiry and Problem Solving), Media Literacy

In this lesson, students become historical detectives and puzzle designers as they explore the Murdoch Mysteries episode “Murdoch Escape Room” (Season 14, Episode 7). Students will analyze the elements of escape rooms and how they connect to narrative structure, historical events and scientific thinking.

Students will design and build their own themed escape-room challenge inspired by the episode. Their puzzles must integrate elements from the show, reflect historical accuracy and include tasks that require scientific knowledge (e.g., magnetism, electricity, chemical reactions).

To set the stage, the class will first watch the episode and analyze the structure of the escape room featured in the show. Students will discuss how the puzzles are used to drive the story and build tension. Students will also view behind-the-scenes footage from Making Murdoch to better understand how historical research and problem-solving are woven into production. These viewings will provide inspiration and context for the students’ designs.

Note: Murdoch Mysteries is considered a family show; however, it deals with murder as do some lesson activities. Consider previewing episodes to ensure you can address any questions or concerns.

Murdoch Escape Room — Season 14, Episode 7: Detective William Murdoch, Dr. Julia Ogden, Inspector Brackenreid and Constable Crabtree are lured into a factory rigged with deadly traps and cryptic clues. Racing against time, they must unravel layered riddles and ciphers to outwit a mysterious foe, turning ingenuity and teamwork into the key to survival.

• The episode focuses on riddles and ciphers; the setting is an electroplating factory.
• History of Electroplating — “The Origins of Electroplating: From 19th-Century Invention to 20th-Century Design”
• Electroplating 101 — Video

• Writing clear instructions — phrasing steps so others can follow them
• Simple narrative writing — escape-room backstory
• Decision making — choosing among options rather than guessing randomly
• Basic puzzle literacy — approaches to riddles, codes and ciphers (try small parts; look for patterns)
• Vocabulary — Victorian words/phrases and applicable history (see “English of the Victorian Era”)
• Collaborative communication — sharing ideas, listening and dividing roles effectively

Consider introducing students to the World of Murdoch Mysteries to familiarize them with the show and characters before the lesson.

Why have people across history and cultures created and solved puzzles?

How does solving puzzles make us better thinkers or learners?

What happens to our abilities and skills if we stop problem solving (and rely on Artificial Intelligence — AI or Large Language Models — LLM)?

For insight into this topic, explore: “ChatGPT May Be Eroding Critical Thinking Skills, According to a New MIT Study” (Time) and Diary of a CEO: “Brain Experts Warning: Watch Before Using ChatGPT Again!”

1. Why have people always created and enjoyed puzzles? What role do they play in culture and storytelling?

2. What do we lose if we let technology solve complex problems?

3. What skills do we develop when we tackle riddles, codes or problems?

4. How do puzzles strengthen our thinking, collaboration and creativity?

5. How do escape rooms tell a story and engage participants in problem solving?

6. In what ways do puzzles connect to language, math, the arts and history?

7. What makes a puzzle or escape room both fun and meaningful?

8. How can you combine your group’s interests, strengths and abilities to make your escape?

Clarify key terms: critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, and the difference between collaboration and communication.

By the end of this lesson, students will:

• Narrative Design: Analyze how plot structure, pacing and suspense drive puzzle-based storytelling; apply insights to create a cohesive escape-room narrative.
• Mathematical & Logical Reasoning: Design and integrate math-based and logic puzzles appropriate to grade level, ensuring each contributes meaningfully to the overall challenge.
• Visual Creativity: Research and craft visually engaging puzzles, props and room layouts that reflect the Murdoch era (1895–1912).
• Historical Integration: Weave authentic historical events, settings or figures into the escape room to deepen understanding and immersion.
• Collaboration & Critical Thinking: Solve design problems as a team, refining ideas through feedback and iterative planning to create a balanced, challenging experience.
• Communication & Presentation: Clearly convey the escape-room concept and solutions through written plans, visual materials and an engaging class presentation.

• Communication: presenting ideas clearly; persuasive language in pitches
• Collaboration: designing with others; sharing tasks; resolving disagreements
• Innovation: original puzzle design; testing creative mechanisms
• Empathy: designing for user experience; anticipating confusion and difficulty
• Executive Function: time management; organization; role delegation
• Historical Thinking: distinguishing fact from fiction; evaluating historical sources
• Scientific Reasoning: hypothesis testing; using cause and effect

Performance Task: For the culminating assessment, students design and present a fully realized escape-room challenge. Working individually or in small groups, they create an original series of puzzles, riddles, codes and ciphers; organize them into a cohesive storyline; and plan the physical or digital layout of the room. During class, they set up and facilitate their escape room for peers, showcasing creativity, critical thinking and problem solving. In a brief reflection, students explain how their design choices create suspense and engagement, demonstrating how immersive games can tell a story.

Lesson Resources on Google Drive