High School Grade  Lesson 45 minutes

Heart-to-Heart with Aztec Culture!

Amy L
Updated
Showing understanding
Understanding others' viewpoints
Recognizing my impact
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Purpose

The learning experience aims to cultivate empathy by immersing students in the complex culture and belief systems of the Aztecs, particularly their rituals and decision-making during crises. It encourages students to appreciate diverse perspectives and understand how historical and cultural contexts influence beliefs and actions. By engaging in role-playing, creative expression, and reflective dialogue, students gain insight into the humanity shared across time and cultural differences.

Learning goals

Students will gain a deeper understanding of Aztec cultural practices and belief systems by actively engaging in role-playing and discussions, helping them to empathize with historical and cultural perspectives that differ from their own.Through creating digital exhibits and participating in creative reflections, students will demonstrate their ability to appreciate and respect the worldview of others, recognizing the ways in which historical beliefs influence societal behavior. Ultimately, these activities will foster skills in empathy, critical thinking, and intercultural understanding.

Competencies
  • Building Empathy - Showing understanding (GC.IS.3.c)
  • Building Empathy - Understanding others' viewpoints (GC.IS.3.a)
  • Building Empathy - Recognizing my impact (GC.IS.3.b)

Products

Students will create a digital exhibit featuring artifacts, texts, and artworks related to Aztec culture, complete with annotated reflections to convey their empathetic understanding of the Aztecs' belief systems and rituals. Alongside, they will compose and share creative writing pieces such as journal entries or poems that capture their empathetic insights and personal responses after stepping into the shoes of Aztecs during reenactment activities. These products will serve both as a tool for self-reflection and an avenue for public presentation during the 'Voices of the Past' storytelling event, providing students with opportunities to express and refine their newfound perspectives.

Launch

Begin the lesson with an immersive 'Aztec Culture Simulator.' Set up the classroom as an Aztec village facing a drought. Distribute roles to students as community leaders, farmers, and religious figures who must make collective decisions rooted in Aztec belief systems to ensure survival. Facilitate discussions to explore their thought processes and decisions, highlighting how cultural norms shape actions during crises.

Exhibition

Invite students and community members to attend the 'Voices of the Past' event, where students will read their creative journal entries or poems aloud in a storytelling circle. Decorate the space with students' digital exhibits of Aztec artifacts, texts, and artworks, and provide opportunities for attendees to interact with these annotated displays. Encourage an open dialogue session afterward, allowing guests to ask questions and share thoughts on the diverse perspectives and empathetic insights presented.