1. E. Napp The Mayas In this lesson, students will be able to define the following terms: Mayas Farming Techniques of the Mayas Religious beliefs of the Mayas Class Hierarchy of the Mayas Accomplishments of the Mayas

2. E. Napp The Mayas lived in southern Mexico and Guatemala.

3. E. Napp The Mayas From about 250 A.D., the Mayas built a civilization in present-day Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and Mexico. The Mayas developed an advanced civilization in Central America.

4. E. Napp Under difficult geographic circumstances, the Mayas farmed successfully and built beautiful cities.

5. E. Napp Agriculture The Mayas drained swamps to farm. The Mayas erected platforms for farming in the rain forest. The Mayas irrigated their fields of corn, beans, and other plants to produce agricultural surpluses.

6. E. Napp It was difficult land to farm on but Mayan farming techniques produced agricultural surpluses.

7. E. Napp Religion The Mayas were polytheists. They believed in many gods. A large temple pyramid stood in the middle of every Mayan city. Cities were religious centers.

8. E. Napp The Mayas lived in city-states. The city-states never united. A large temple pyramid stood in the middle of each city.

9. E. Napp Trade The Mayas traded extensively. Traders sold salt, honey, cotton, bird feathers, food, and slaves. The Mayas profited greatly from trade.

10. E. Napp Trade was very important to the Mayas.

11. E. Napp The Class Hierarchy The Mayas divided themselves into three groups. Rulers were the most powerful members of society followed by warriors and priests. Artisans, merchants, peasants, and slaves were the least powerful members of society.

12. E. Napp The Mayas invented a calendar.

13. E. Napp Accomplishments The Mayas invented a calendar. The Mayas invented a mathematical system based on the number 20. The Mayas studied astronomy and built pyramids.

14. E. Napp Questions for Reflection: Who were the Mayas and where did they live? Why is it surprising that the Mayas produced agricultural surpluses? Why did the Mayas build pyramids? What did the Mayas trade? List several accomplishments of the Mayas.