Higher Education Holidays/Seasonal Independent Work Packet (by date, oldest first)

Unveil the Maya Mysteries: Gods, Games & Rituals - A Captivating Reading Adventure

Dive into the heart of Mayan civilization! This engaging reading comprehension worksheet explores their fascinating religious beliefs and rituals, from majestic ball games to intricate offerings. Uncover captivating myths, decode a primary source, and answer thought-provoking questions, revealing the Maya's unique connection to the divine.

What's Inside:

• Immersive reading passage: Transports students to an ancient world of gods, myths, and rituals, exploring their profound impact on daily life.
• Diverse question types: Multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer questions assess comprehension, analysis, and critical thinking skills.
• Primary source analysis: Decipher an excerpt from the Popol Vuh, strengthening historical understanding and source evaluation skills.
• Unveiling connections: Explore the symbolic meanings behind ball games, offerings, and sacrifices, gaining insights into their complex belief system.
• Comprehensive answer key: Save time and ensure accuracy with a detailed answer key for all questions.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the diverse Maya deities and their roles in the universe.
• Explore the creation myth in the Popol Vuh and its significance.
• Analyze the symbolic meaning and cultural importance of the ball game Pok-a-Tok.
• Examine the Maya practice of blood offerings and sacrifices within their historical context.
• Appreciate the enduring legacy of Maya religious beliefs and their relevance today.
• Develop critical reading, comprehension, and analytical thinking skills.

Common Core Standards Addressed:

• RI.4.1, RI.5.1, RI.6.1: Read closely and determine what the text says explicitly and implicitly.
• RI.4.2, RI.5.2, RI.6.2: Determine central ideas or themes of a text and analyze their development.
• RI.4.3, RI.5.3, RI.6.3: Analyze how and why authors use evidence to support their claims.
• RI.4.7, RI.5.7, RI.6.7: Integrate and evaluate multiple sources of information.
• WHST.4.2, WHST.5.2, WHST.6.2: Write informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas and information.

Unravel the Mysteries of the Maya: A Captivating Journey Through Their Lost Civilization

Embark on an extraordinary adventure into the heart of the Mayan world! This comprehensive reading comprehension worksheet delves into the captivating mysteries, groundbreaking achievements, and enduring legacy of this remarkable civilization. Explore their towering pyramids, decipher their complex writing system, and unravel the secrets of their daily life, rituals, and beliefs.

What's Inside:

• Immersive reading passage: Transports students to the peak of Mayan civilization, uncovering their fascinating cities, advanced knowledge, and unique cultural practices.
• Diverse question types: Multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer questions assess comprehension, analysis, and critical thinking skills.
• Primary source exploration: Analyze an excerpt from a historical text, strengthening source evaluation and historical understanding skills.
• Unveiling hidden wonders: Explore iconic sites like Chichen Itza and Tikal, comparing Mayan pyramids to other civilizations and delving into their astronomical significance.
• Beyond the surface: Discover the daily lives of the Maya, from their food and clothing to social structures and the fascinating history of chocolate.
• Decoding the cosmos: Understand the remarkable accuracy of the Mayan calendar system and its deep connection to their celestial observations.
• Leaders and legacies: Learn about the powerful Mayan rulers and their lasting impact on the civilization.
• Comprehensive answer key: Save time and ensure accuracy with a detailed answer key for all questions.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze the key characteristics and achievements of Mayan civilization, including city-states, architecture, writing systems, and scientific advancements.
• Compare and contrast Mayan cultural practices, like ball games and rituals, with those of other civilizations.
• Evaluate the impact of astronomy on Mayan daily life, architecture, and calendar systems.
• Understand the complex social structure and daily lives of the Maya, including food, clothing, and the significance of chocolate.
• Explain the theories and ongoing research surrounding the decline and collapse of the Mayan civilization.
• Appreciate the enduring legacy of the Maya and their contributions to various fields of knowledge.
• Develop critical reading, comprehension, analysis, and evaluation skills.

Common Core Standards Addressed:

• RI.4.1, RI.5.1, RI.6.1: Read closely and determine what the text says explicitly and implicitly.
• RI.4.2, RI.5.2, RI.6.2: Determine central ideas or themes of a text and analyze their development.
• RI.4.3, RI.5.3, RI.6.3: Analyze how and why authors use evidence to support their claims.
• RI.4.7, RI.5.7, RI.6.7: Integrate and evaluate multiple sources of information.
• WHST.4.2, WHST.5.2, WHST.6.2: Write informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas and information.