This integrated module covers topics relating to the rain forest ecology, the ancient Maya civilization, and how archeology uncovers the pieces to the past. Students readJaguarduring this study and participate in an online collaborative 3D project re-recreating a lost civilization.

An introduction is given to the way archaeologists work using the lost civization of the Maya as the basis. In the process of learning about these examples, students explore how to find and excavate archaeological sites, how to date the past, and how to interpret archaeological data.

This module will help the students become aware how our modern hierarchies are similar to their own social structure.

Students will realize the great contributions in astronomy and math by identifying calendar symbols.

Students also explore the Ancient Mound Builders and Mississippian Culture.

At the end of this module students will be able to:

• Develop an awareness of the complex nature of a given culture: its history, geography, art, religion, architecture, communication and social structure.
• Understand the concept of region in relation to race, religion and culture.
• Understand how belief systems affect a society's actions.
• Understand the Mayan accomplishments as architects and artisans: pyramids and temples.
• Understand the development of a system of hieroglyphic writing.

3D Rainfiorest and Maya ruins: Students create a lost civilzation and create an interactive game for other students to travel through in search of the lost Mayans.