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From Our World To Theirs |
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These
activities can be used as learning extensions for
The Second Voyage of the Mimi (The Learning
Company) and/or MayaQuest 2001 (Classroom
Connections) |
Curriculum Activities for Teachers Intermediate Level |
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Classroom Activities for:
Archaeological Sites•
Hieroglyphs•
Mathematics•
Mayan Calendar and Astronomy•
People and Issues•
Glossary•
Voyage of the MIMI II•
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Learning Objectives |
The Student Will: Synthesize and organize information about the Mayan ruins, mathematics system, hieroglyphs, calendar and astronomy from a variety of sources. Summarize and explain theories associated with decline of the ancient Maya culture. Increase awareness of the indigenous people of Mexico and Central America.
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Identify the location and give some characteristics of the following archaeological sites: Coba, Copan, Chichen Itza, Tulum, Palenque, Uxmal Make a map/diagram of locations of the sites. Make a chart which explains the following: What were the main buildings and structures of each ancient site? What were the major characteristics? What was the geography like around each site? What important artifacts were found at each ancient site?
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Investigate Mayan hieroglyphs. Design an original emblem glyph. Write your birthdate in hieroglyphic numbers. Visit http://www.halfmoon.org/date.html for help. Design a stela which includes birth dates and emblem glyphs.
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Explore the number system of this ancient civilization. The Maya did not count by using the numbers 1, 2, and 3. Instead, their system used three symbols: the dot (representing one unit); a straight line (representing five units); and a shell (representing zero). Make a chart of the Mayan number system. draw the symbols that represent the numbers 1 through 20. The Maya number system is based on 20 units. How many units is our decimal system is based on? Use the Maya numbers to write a few simple math problems and design a math test for other students to take.
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The Maya developed a very accurate calendar, based-upon a sophisticated understanding of astronomy and mathematics. They used unique glyphs, or symbols, to represent each day and each month. Maya used these glyphs combined with numbers to write dates. Important dates were carved in stone monuments called "stela." Describe the Maya calendar and how it compares with the calendar we use today. Make a comparison chart. Describe how the Maya could tell when the winter solstice occurred at Tulum.
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When did the Mayan civilizations flourish, and then collapse? Make a timeline showing important dates. Explore and summarize theories for the collapse of the ancient Maya civilizations, such as environmental degradation, natural disaster, overpopulation, warfare, and changing beliefs. Defend which theory YOU think is correct. Investigate the modern Maya who live in the Mexico, Guatemala. Belize and Honduras. What are some of the issues facing them today?
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Compile a glossary of vocabulary words: archaeologist artifact emblem glyph glyph hieroglyphics Maya sacbe solstice stela
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