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All grades  Project 4 weeks

Mystic Empires: Mayans, Aztecs, Incas Adventure!

MATTHEW G
MU:Re7.2.7.b
HS-ESS1-5
3A-IC-24
DA:Cn10.1.4.b
DA:Cr3.1.2.a
+ 5 more
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Purpose

This project aims to immerse students in the rich histories of the Mayan, Aztec, and Incan civilizations, focusing on their agricultural and land use practices. Through hands-on activities and community engagement, students will explore the impact of these ancient cultures on modern sustainable farming and resource management. By connecting historical insights with contemporary practices, students will deepen their understanding of cultural heritage and develop critical thinking skills applicable to today's environmental challenges.

Learning goals

Students will explore the historical significance of war, agriculture, and land use in shaping the Mayan, Aztec, and Incan civilizations. They will develop multimedia presentations and engage in archaeological simulations to understand the impact of these factors on daily life. Through peer reviews, debates, and role-playing activities, students will refine their critical thinking and communication skills while drawing parallels to modern sustainable practices. Collaborations with community partners will enrich their learning, culminating in exhibitions that showcase their insights and creative expressions.
Standards
  • [National Core Arts Standards] MU:Re7.2.7.b - Identify and compare the context of music from a variety of genres, cultures, and historical periods.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-ESS1-5 - Evaluate evidence of the past and current movements of continental and oceanic crust and the theory of plate tectonics to explain the ages of crustal rocks.
  • [Computer Science Teachers Association] 3A-IC-24 - Evaluate the ways computing impacts personal, ethical, social, economic, and cultural practices.
  • [National Core Arts Standards] DA:Cn10.1.4.b - Develop and research a question relating to a topic of study in school using multiple sources of references. Select key aspects about the topic and choreograph movements that communicate the information. Discuss what was learned from creating the dance and describe how the topic might be communicated using another form of expression.
  • [National Core Arts Standards] DA:Cr3.1.2.a - Explore suggestions and make choices to change movement from guided improvisation and/or short remembered sequences.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.

Products

Students will create a collaborative mural depicting the agricultural practices of the Mayans, Aztecs, and Incas, showcasing their understanding of historical farming techniques. They will also prepare traditional dishes using historically significant ingredients and present them at a community event, discussing the cultural importance of these foods. Additionally, students will develop multimedia presentations and timelines to highlight key events and developments in these civilizations, focusing on land use and agriculture.

Launch

To kick off the learning experience, host a 'Historical Trade Fair' where students create booths representing different aspects of Mayan, Aztec, and Incan economies. Students will explore how these civilizations utilized land and resources, engaging in simulated trading activities to understand the economic and cultural significance of their agricultural systems. This interactive event will spark curiosity and set the stage for deeper exploration of historical land use and sustainable farming practices.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Heritage Festival' where they present traditional foods, crafts, and games inspired by the Mayans, Aztecs, and Incas. The festival will include interactive stations where visitors can engage in hands-on activities, such as preparing ancient dishes or participating in traditional games, fostering a deeper understanding of these cultures. Additionally, students will display a collaborative mural depicting the agricultural practices of these civilizations, showcasing their research and artistic interpretations. This event will serve as a platform for students to share their insights and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Mayans, Aztecs, and Incas with the community.