Maya Lesson Plans

In this lesson 6th graders make up a math problem using Maya notation. They write their math problems using Maya symbols on separate sheets of paper and groups exchange papers to solve each other's problems.

Students recognize the relationships between Maya city-states during the classical period. They prepare news reports about major events of the period such as the capture of a rival king and his city-state.

Students create brochures and postcards that might have been created by and for travelers to ancient Mayan cities. They read and discuss the Times article, 'In Maya Ruins, Scholars See Evidence of Urban Sprawl.'

In this lesson learners analyze the symbols presented in a Maya artifact. They create collages that depict a theme related to contemporary life in their community, and write brief analyses explaining the symbolism of the images they chose.

Learners explore the culture of the Mayans through a variety of activities. In this lesson about Maya, learners analyze pictures in books and on websites, produce scale models of Maya architecture, and create Maya mosaics. Learners study Maya myths, analyze and create glyphs or pictures, role-play as warriors, write to a Maya pen-pal, and finally enjoy a Maya feast. Learners develop a true understanding of the Maya people by the close of this lesson.

This lesson has students work in teams to research ancient Mayan civilization as they simulate working for the President of the United States. He is concerned that if a civilization as technologically advanced as the Maya's could disappear, could the U.S. do the same?

1st graders study the animals in the Maya Forest Reserve. In this conservation lesson, 1st graders create a graph to compare the environment of animals to their own. They design a 3D model of these two environments.

In this lesson students research the culture of the Mayans. In this early civilizations lesson, students research selected Maya city-states including Tikal, Clakmul, Piedras Niegras, and Uaxactun. In this lesson students use their research findings to present news reports to their classmates.

In this lesson students read about the bags that the Maya people made and about how reusing bags can help save our environment. In this environment lesson plan, students read and discuss conservation and observe pictures.

Learners make an ancient Maya travel guide. In this ancient Maya lesson, learners use knowledge from previous lessons to design a travel guide. They include important information for a traveler who wants to visit an ancient Maya city. They describe how to get around, include pictures, and let the traveler know about art and architecture they might encounter.