Key to... The Maya Civilisation

Developed by history specialist Stuart Tiffany (Mr T Does History), this KS2 resource aligns with the National Curriculum and provides an in-depth exploration of the Mayan Civilisation c.AD 900. This engaging unit encourages pupils to investigate and comprehend key aspects of the Maya, enabling them to make connections between different historical periods, identify trends, and develop their historical thinking through structured accounts and written analyses.

Key Learning Areas:

• Historical Concepts: Pupils will explore key concepts such as continuity and change, cause and consequence, similarity and difference, and significance. These concepts will help them develop critical thinking and analytical skills by making connections and drawing contrasts between historical periods.

• Topics Covered:

  • Linking Previous Learning: Making connections between previous history topics and the study of the Maya.
  • Governance of the Maya: Exploring how the Maya civilisation was governed and comparing it to other periods studied, including social hierarchies.
  • Maya Technology and Resources: Understanding the materials, resources, and technology that the Maya used in daily life and their advanced achievements.
  • Mayan Achievements: Investigating the significant achievements of the Maya, including their innovations in mathematics, astronomy, and writing systems.
  • Comparing Civilisations: Drawing direct comparisons between the Maya civilisation and concurrent British history during this period.

Engaging Worksheets and Activities:

Pupils will engage with a variety of interactive worksheets and activities, including:

• Timeline Cards: Setting the historical context for the Maya civilisation through timeline sequencing.
• Mapping Key Maya Sites: Identifying and plotting important Mayan sites, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, on a map to understand their location within the rainforest.
• Role of Kings and Priests: Exploring the roles of kings and priests in Maya society and comparing these figures to other historical leaders.
• Jobs in Ancient Maya: Investigating the different roles in Maya society, focusing on why we know more about priests and kings compared to other jobs.
• Weapons and Tools: Using photographs to identify Maya weapons and tools and understanding the materials they used, such as obsidian.
• Mayan Achievements: Studying Maya achievements, how they influenced later cultures, and examining which aspects of their knowledge are still in use today.

Skills Development:

Through these activities, pupils will develop valuable skills, such as:

• Making Chronological and Contextual Links: Connecting new learning about the Maya with previously studied periods.
• Extracting Relevant Information: Learning to extract key information from a range of sources to better understand the Maya civilisation.
• Understanding Achievements: Defining and explaining what constitutes an achievement in a historical context.
• Identifying Social Hierarchies: Recognising the structure of society in ancient Maya civilisation, focusing on the roles of kings, priests, and other social classes.
• Comparing Civilisations: Using evidence to draw contrasts and trends between the Maya and other historical civilisations, including contemporary Britain.

What’s Included:

• Planning Leaflet: A detailed guide to teaching this unit, ensuring structured and effective delivery.
• Worksheets and Activities: Fun and interactive worksheets designed to engage pupils in the learning process.
• Video Links: Curated resources to enhance the learning experience and provide visual context.
• Suggested Activities: Classroom activities to deepen understanding and facilitate discussion.

This Mayan Civilisation unit is a fantastic resource for teaching primary school children about one of the most fascinating ancient civilisations. By the end of the unit, your pupils will have developed key historical skills, a greater understanding of the Maya, and a deepened appreciation for their legacy.

Purchase today to get access to the planning leaflet, worksheets, video links, and suggested activities, all in compliance with the KS2 National Curriculum History requirements!