5.2 - Complex Societies and Civilizations

From EngageNY

Between 1100 B.C.E. and 1500 C.E, complex societies and civilizations developed in the Western Hemisphere. Although these complex societies and civilizations have certain defining characteristics in common, each is also known for unique cultural achievements and contributions.

5.2a
Civilizations share certain common characteristics of religion, job specialization, cities, government, language and writing systems, technology and social hierarchy.
  • Students will locate the complex societies and civilizations of the Mayas, Aztecs, and Incas on a map and when they occurred.
  • Students will investigate the characteristics of the Mayas, Aztecs, and Incas noting similarities and differences.
5.2b Complex societies and civilizations adapted to and modified their environment to meet the needs of their people.
  • Students will compare how the Mayas, Aztecs, and Incas adapted to and modified their environment to meet the needs of the people, examining the clothing, farming, shelter, and transportation systems for each.
5.2c Political states can take different forms such as city-states and empires. A city-state is comprised of a city with a government that controls the surrounding territory, while an empire is a political organization developed when a single supreme authority takes control over other geographic and/or cultural regions beyond its initial settlements.
  • Students will compare and contrast political states of the Maya and the Aztec noting the territories they controlled, the type of rule each had, and how the ruler attempted to unify the people.

Supporting Materials

DVD

Aztec, Inca & Zapotec

"Wonders of the Ancient World" explores some of the world's most remarkable historic treasures in Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas. This far-reaching series features fantastic monuments such as the Pyramids, the Acropolis and the Taj Mahal, and investigates fascinating people such as the...

DVD

Kid's Animated History with Pipo: Disc 5

Kid's Animated History With Pipo presents The Time Compass -- showcasing significant historical events in a humorous and easy to understand style. This delightful series plays out in a book-like format, taking viewers on a journey in time. From Ancient Egypt to Classical Greece...

DVD

Maya

In this vivid look at the ancient civilization of the Maya people, students will explore some of their most important archaeological sites, from the sacred Maya city of Chichen Itza on the Yucatan Peninsula to the jungle temples and palaces of Tikal in Guatemala. From there, viewers will journey...

DVD

The History of Mexico

Examines the ancient civilizations of the Olmec, Aztec, and Maya; Spanish conquest of the Aztec; the impact of Catholic missionaries; the wars for independence. Looks at Mexican leaders such as Benito Juarez, Father Hidalgo, and General Santa Anna.

Game

The Princes of Machu Picchu

After the conquest of the Inca Empire by the Spanish invaders, only a few native princes managed to flee into the mountains. In Machu Picchu, a hidden city in the Andes, they build up a new peaceful society with their families. But beware: The Spanish are nearby and threaten to discover their...

DVD

Time Life's Lost Civilizations

This set of 4 DVD's contains a collection of 10 programs spanning seven thousand years of history. Below are a list of the titles included and a synopsis of each.

Mesopotamia: Return to Eden
The great world traditions of the Christian, Jewish, and Muslim faiths all trace the roots...

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