The Mayan Civilization: a WebQuest

Introduction / Assignment / Topics

Introduction:

The ancient Mayan civilization once flourished in areas now known to us as Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula. Many artifacts and ruins of their ancient cities have survived. Studying them has provided us with a great deal of information and some mysteries too. Although the ancient cities have long been abandoned, the descendents of the Maya live on, passing their traditions on to future generations

You will have an opportunity to learn more about this fascinating civilization by reading and viewing  a variety of resources.
Use your research to complete the following assignment.

Assignment:

1. Choose one of the topics below.

2. Research the topic.

3. Resources: Use at least one book, one magazine or newspaper article, and two websites. Properly cite your sources.

4. Create one of the following to demonstrate what you have learned:
   a. An essay which is illustrated with graphics, illustrations, maps, etc.
   b. A PowerPoint presentation which includes illustrations, diagrams, maps etc.
   c. Oral presentation which includes a visual aid such as a a diagram, map, poster, etc.

5. Participate in a class discussion on the topics.

Topics:

Explore one of the following topics.

1. Describe the city of  Tulum. What does it tell us about these people and how they lived? What was its importance to the Mayan people? What purpose did the wall serve? Draw a diagram of the city.

2. Who were the explorers who discovered the ruins of Tulum in 1842? Describe what they found. What is a lithograph?

3. What was the day of an average Mayan citizen like? How did they live? What did they eat? How did they dress? How were their lives different from yours?

4. There are several theories about why the ancient Mayan cities may have been abandoned. Discuss at least two of these theories, giving evidence to support them. Which theory do you think is most likely? Why?

5. Religion was very important to the Maya. What were some of their beliefs and rituals? How did religion affect their daily lives, their architecture? Describe at least two of their Gods and explain how they were important. Draw pictures of them.

6. What are stelae? How have they contributed to our knowledge about this civilization? What is a hieroglyph? Draw an example.

7. The Mayan civilization was very advanced for its time. What were some of the advancements they had made? What modern inventions did they lack, which made their feats even more amazing?

8. Discuss the myths and legends of the Maya. Describe some of the characters and story lines. What can we learn about the Maya from their stories?

9. The ancient cities were abandoned, but the Maya people live on today. What problems do they face? How are they working to keep their customs alive?

10. Add Your Own Topic! Did we neglect to include a topic here that has sparked your interest? See your teacher for approval.