Unit 3: Olmec and Maya Civilizations

Define the term 'Slash-and-Burn'.

• A farming method in which trees and other plants in a small land area are cut down and burned to enrich the poor soil of the rainforest.

• A technique for growing crops without the use of water.

• A method of clearing land by poisoning plants instead of burning them.

• A way to fertilize soil using only chemical additives.

Define the term 'Hieroglyphic'.

• A symbol derived from a picture that stands for an idea, word, or sound.

• A system of mathematical symbols used exclusively in ancient trade.

• A form of art employing abstract geometric shapes to represent invisible concepts.

• A traditional method of storytelling using musical notes and rhythms.

Define the term 'Observatory'.

• Buildings for observing the sun, moon, and other objects in the sky.

• A facility for manufacturing telescopes.

• A place where animals are observed.

• A building used for storing astronomical equipment.

Define the term 'Olmec'.

• The Olmec civilization lasted from 1200 BCE to 400 BCE in Mesoamerica.

• The Olmec were an indigenous North American tribe known for their distinctive pottery.

• The Olmec were a mythological race mentioned in ancient Greek literature.

• The Olmec civilization was centered in the Andean region during the Iron Age.

Define the term 'Zapotec'.

• The Zapotec people were ancient people who lived in the southwest highlands of Mesoamerica.

• It refers to a language spoken by the Zapotec people.

• It is a term used in modern Mexico to describe a local cheese.

• It is a festival celebrated by several indigenous communities.

Agriculture enabled the development of civilization in Mesoamerica by providing a food surplus.

• It led to food surplus and social complexity.

• It had a negligible impact on society.

• It was only used for ceremonial purposes.

• It was introduced by outside cultures.

The Maya adapted to their physical environment by developing advanced agricultural systems, constructing monumental architecture, and implementing effective water management techniques.

• They only focused on agriculture.

• They only built monumental cities.

• They only practiced water management.

• They employed advanced agriculture, monumental architecture, and water management techniques.

Using the map on page 155 answer the following: Where was Tikal located in relation to Copan? Select the correct direction.

• North of Copan

• South of Copan

• East of Copan

• West of Copan

Using the map on page 155, determine which civilization covered the largest area.

• Roman

• Ottoman

• Persian

• Maya civilization

Maya achievement in Writing: Developed an advanced writing system using hieroglyphs enabling Mayan people to record information.

• Developed an advanced writing system using hieroglyphs

• Invented an early calendar system

• Built monumental pyramids

• Established a complex trade network