Word sorts - The Maya

In an interactive classroom activity designed to explore the history of the Ancient Maya, students are encouraged to work in pairs to identify six words from a given list that are associated with this Mesoamerican civilization. The task requires the students to circle the words relevant to the Ancient Maya, with each correct identification earning them a point. This exercise not only serves as an engaging way to learn about the Maya but also helps to develop critical thinking and collaborative skills.

The words provided cover a range of terms, some of which are directly linked to the Maya, such as 'pyramid', 'chocolate', 'Tikal', 'Pok-ta-pok', and 'Chichen Itza', while others like 'pharaoh', 'holocaust', 'butter', 'Socrates', 'Brazil', and 'Amazon' are not. Through this activity, students gain insight into the rich cultural and historical significance of the Maya, known for their impressive architectural feats, such as pyramids and cities like Tikal and Chichen Itza, their invention of a complex writing system, and their contributions to agriculture, including the cultivation of cacao, from which chocolate is made. This exercise not only tests students' knowledge but also prompts them to discuss and learn more about the remarkable achievements and legacy of the Maya civilization.