Understanding the Maya Calendar

History
Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
9 questions
~18 mins
1 views0 downloads

About This Worksheet

This worksheet explores different interpretations of the Maya calendar system through contrasting historian views, encouraging students to analyze and evaluate historical perspectives.

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Understanding the Maya Calendar

Subject: HistoryGrade: Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
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Grade Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
A

Interpreting the Maya Calendar: Contrasting Historian Views

Historian A: John Doe – Archaeological Perspective

'Historian A argues that the Maya calendar was primarily a practical tool used for agricultural and ceremonial purposes. Based on archaeological findings such as inscriptions and artifacts, they emphasize the calendar’s role in daily life and governance. The precise calculations and long counts suggest a sophisticated understanding of astronomy, but ultimately, it served as a means to organize social and religious events.'

Historian B: Jane Smith – Cultural Perspective

'Historian B contends that the Maya calendar was deeply symbolic and intertwined with their worldview. She highlights the religious significance of the calendar cycles, viewing it as a spiritual framework rather than just a practical tool. The emphasis on ritual and prophecy in inscriptions supports her view that the calendar was central to Maya cosmology and cultural identity.'

1.
Summarize the main argument of Historian A about the Maya calendar.
[2 marks]
2.
Summarize the main argument of Historian B about the Maya calendar.
[2 marks]
3.
Compare the reasons why Historian A and Historian B have different views on the Maya calendar.
[3 marks]
4.
Explain which historian’s interpretation you find more convincing and justify your choice.
[4 marks]
5.
Outline the significance of the Maya calendar in their society based on both historians’ views.
[3 marks]
6.
Analyse how the contrasting views of the two historians help us understand the importance of the Maya calendar.
[4 marks]
7.
Describe some archaeological evidence used to support Historian A’s view.
[3 marks]
8.
Describe how inscriptions support the view of Historian B about the spiritual significance of the Maya calendar.
[3 marks]
9.
Evaluate which interpretation you find more convincing and give reasons for your choice.
[4 marks]

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Details

Created
1/1/2026
Updated
1/1/2026
Type
worksheet