language – open ended social studies

Here’s an idea to get your social studies students going — have them write a poem using the glyphic script of the ancient Maya.

Background on the language can be found with this free Openendedsocialstudies lesson plan, The Written Language of the Ancient Maya. Then, your students can use this dictionary to write a short poem in the Maya script, using at least a dozen glyphs.

Have students share their poems with the class and reflect — does composing in Mayan effect the experience of writing and reading?

cocao — Chocolate beverages were popular among the ancient Mayas, who used special recipients to serve it. They often consumed it cold, hot, or spiced with chili, annatto, or vanilla. The inscription on this vessel records its function for drinking a specific type of cacao, and the name and place of residence of its owner, Tzakal u K’ahk’ Hutal Ek’, lord of Acanceh.

Find more free lessons on the Maya at Openendsocialstudies.org.

There are also plenty of free lessons featuring other peoples from world history.

Tag: language

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