Students are introduced to the Maya civilization by learning about El Castillo in Chichen Itza. Then they learn about where the Maya civilization started and spread as well as some of its prominent features. Next, they explore and explain theories on what led to the end of the Maya civilization. Finally, they learn about Maya descendants today and consider what their own future descendants might think about society today.
Students are introduced to the lesson focus and objectives, then consider impressive human-made structures and how they are built. They view El Castillo, Chichen Itza to begin learning about the Maya and their architecture. After watching, they complete a two-column class table by posting something they learned about Maya civilization and a question they still have.
Teacher MovesPresent the lesson overview and objectives. After students post to the table, lead a discussion of their responses, highlighting new understandings and questions and using the video to spark interest in learning more about the Maya civilization that created El Castillo.
Students view an image of a Maya pyramid at Chichen Itza, then watch Ancient Maya 101 and read The Maya civilization to learn about key elements of Maya civilization, including religion, architecture, art, writing, mathematics, politics, and agriculture. As they read, they complete a graphic organizer by taking notes on each of these elements.
Teacher MovesInvite volunteers to summarize what they learned about different aspects of Maya civilization and to compare and contrast these features with other ancient civilizations students have studied. Optionally direct interested students to explore the interactive map in The Maya World for additional context about Maya towns and archaeological sites.
Students view an image of a Maya warrior, then watch Maya Civilization to learn about theories explaining the end of the Maya civilization. They post to a class wall, explaining in their own words the current primary theory about why the Maya civilization ended.
Teacher MovesSelect and share one or more strong student explanations to anchor a class discussion. Extend the conversation by connecting the historical theories—such as drought, deforestation, and climate change—to present-day environmental challenges and asking students to consider which modern civilizations might be most affected by similar issues.
Students view an image of a contemporary Maya family, then watch The Maya People to learn about Maya descendants today and how they connect their present culture to their past. They respond on a collaborative wall to the prompt: what people 2000 years from now might know and respect about their own culture. Students then read classmates’ posts and reply to at least two with a question or positive comment.
Teacher MovesFacilitate a whole-class discussion of student ideas about how today’s culture might be remembered in the distant future. Encourage students to consider both positive aspects that might be admired and aspects that could be viewed negatively, prompting them to explain their reasoning.
Students complete the exit quiz by answering all the questions.
Teacher MovesFacilitate the assessment and use student data to evaluate understanding, address misconceptions, and identify areas for growth.
©2026 Exploros. All rights reserved.