Grades 5–8, 60 minutes
“They connect directly to our benchmarks and curriculum." —Teacher, Grade 5, Arlington
"Your presentations were awesome today...Your style was perfect for our students and they enjoyed the experience." —Teacher, Grade 7, Weston
Integrates with studies of
- Ancient civilizations
Program Description
A virtual field trip using Skype to highlight the monuments, buildings, and symbols associated with royal power in Maya and Aztec civilizations.
Students learn to read the built landscape to understand the responsibilities and benefits of leadership. A museum educator brings a live video camera into the exhibition to show examples of a codex, architectural models, rare stele, altars, and a obsidian sword as he asks and answers students’ questions. A companion PowerPoint slide show provides maps and photographic support to put the artifacts in context. The class is livestreamed to your classroom from the Encounters in the Americas galleries.
See the FAQ for key information and technical requirements.
Related Resources
- Teacher Guide contains new vocabulary, readings, and activities, such as having students design their own civilizations
- Exhibit Extras engages students and chaperones during their visit
- Watch what a colorful Maya mural in a former gallery exhibit reveals about ancient Maya music