1. The Mayas
In this lesson, students will be able to define the following terms:
Mayas
Farming Techniques of the Mayas
Religious beliefs of the Mayas
Class Hierarchy of the Mayas
Accomplishments of the Mayas

2. The
Mayas
lived in
southern
Mexico
and
Guatemala.

3. The Mayas
From about 250 A.D., the Mayas built a civilization in present-day Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and Mexico.
The Mayas developed an advanced civilization in Central America.

4. Under
difficult
geographic
circumstances,
the Mayas
farmed
successfully
and built
beautiful
cities.

5. Agriculture The Mayas drained swamps to farm.
The Mayas erected platforms for farming in the rain forest.
The Mayas irrigated their fields of corn, beans, and other plants to produce agricultural surpluses.

6. It was difficult land to farm on but Mayan
farming techniques produced agricultural
surpluses.

7. Religion The Mayas were polytheists. They believed in many gods.
A large temple pyramid stood in the middle of every Mayan city.
Cities were religious centers.

8. The Mayas lived in city-states. The city-states never united. A large
temple pyramid stood in the
middle of each city.

9. I took this picture of the same pyramid

10. That’s me in front of the pyramid!!

11. Mayan artwork

13. Another Pyramid

14. Mayan Ruins still stand today!

15. Trade The Mayas traded extensively.
Traders sold salt, honey, cotton, bird feathers, food, and slaves.
The Mayas profited greatly from trade.

16. Trade
was
very
important
to the
Mayas.

17. The Class Hierarchy The Mayas divided themselves into three groups.
Rulers were the most powerful members of society followed by warriors and priests.
Artisans, merchants, peasants, and slaves were the least powerful members of society.

18. The Mayas invented a calendar.

19. Accomplishments The Mayas invented a calendar.
The Mayas invented a mathematical system based on the number 20.
The Mayas studied astronomy and built pyramids.

20. Questions for Reflection:
Who were the Mayas and where did they live?
Why is it surprising that the Mayas produced agricultural surpluses?
Why did the Mayas build pyramids?
What did the Mayas trade?
List several accomplishments of the Mayas.