Mesoamerica vocabulary

What is a cenote?

• A type of tree

• A natural pit or sinkhole

• A mountain

• A desert

Who did the Maya believe lived in cenotes?

• The sun god

• The moon goddess

• The rain god Chaac

• The wind god

What is another name for a cenote?

• "River of dreams"

• "Lake of tranquility"

• "Well of sacrifice"

• "Ocean of peace"

What is a quipo?

• A type of ancient musical instrument

• A traditional Inca garment

• A system of "talking knots" used to record numbers

• A type of Inca pottery

What is jade commonly used for?

• Building materials

• Jewelry and tools

• Food seasoning

• Clothing

What is a "calpulli" in Aztec society?

• A type of Aztec food

• A unit of housing based on kin or family groups

• A form of Aztec currency

• A type of Aztec clothing

What is a "stela"?

• A type of ancient pottery

• A Mayan carved or inscribed stone slab or pillar used for monuments

• A traditional Mayan garment

• A type of ancient musical instrument

What was the role of a "chasqui" in the Incan empire?

• Warrior

• Farmer

• Messenger

• Priest

What is cacao?

• A type of fruit

• The seed from which cocoa and chocolate are made

• A type of vegetable

• A type of nut

What is the main purpose of slash and burn agriculture as used by the Maya?

• To clear land for construction

• To fertilize the soil

• To create space for livestock

• To prevent forest fires