To set the stage for a study of the Aztec Empire, groups use the provided definition of civilization and generate a list of elements that make up our modern day civilization. The whole class then examines an image of an Aztec city and...

Fifth graders investigate the Mayan culture, number system, alphabet, hieroglyphics, history, civilization, artistry, and sports in this series of lessons.

This presentation contains several critical-thinking questions related to the building, components, and purpose of large civilizations. This is an image-driven presentation lacking text. The questions are good so this resource could be...

Students, in groups, research ancient Egyptian civilization. They write articles and publish them in a magazine format.

Students identify seeds humans eat and do not eat. Students make seed collections, using common kitchen foods. Students display seeds from the foods they serve and discuss them with their guests. Students complete activities which...

The complete text of a history of the ancient Greeks written in 440 B.C. In addition to the Greeks, Herodotus provides valuable information about many other groups and societies during this time period.

A comprehensive article accounting the definition and defining characteristics of a civilization to better understand the early civilizations.

This site from the Great Outdoor Recreation Pages provides a good article on how the city of Machu Picchu was lost for more than 400 years!

Scroll a slideshow featuring characteristics of civilizations to aid in understanding the early developments like Mesopotamia or Sumer.