The Disappearance of the Maya Civilization

History
Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
7 questions
~14 mins
1 views0 downloads

About This Worksheet

This worksheet explores the mysterious decline and disappearance of the Maya Civilization, encouraging students to analyze sources and develop their understanding of ancient history.

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The Disappearance of the Maya Civilization

Subject: HistoryGrade: Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
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Untitled Worksheet

Grade Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
A

Introduction to the Maya Disappearance

Source A: Archaeologist's Observation

'The sudden decline of the Maya cities remains one of the greatest mysteries of ancient history. Evidence shows that by the end of the 9th century, many major cities were abandoned.' Provenance: Summary from archaeological research published in 2000.

1.
Explain what Source A suggests about the decline of the Maya civilization. (3 marks)
[3 marks]
2.
Compare the information in Source A with what you already know about ancient civilizations. How does this source help you understand the decline of the Maya? (4 marks)
[4 marks]
B

Theories Behind the Disappearance

Source B: Climate Change Research

'Evidence suggests that prolonged droughts severely affected the Maya, leading to crop failures and social unrest.' Provenance: Climate study published in 2010 based on sediment analysis.

1.
Outline what Source B indicates about environmental factors in the Maya decline. (3 marks)
[3 marks]
2.
Compare the views in Source A and Source B about the reasons for the Maya decline. How do they complement or contradict each other? (4 marks)
[4 marks]
C

Additional Perspectives

Source C: Social and Political Factors

'Internal strife, warfare, and overpopulation may have weakened Maya society, contributing to its collapse.' Provenance: Summary from a historical analysis published in 2015.

1.
Explain how Source C adds to our understanding of the reasons behind the Maya decline. (3 marks)
[3 marks]
2.
Compare the viewpoints of Sources B and C regarding reasons for the Maya decline. How do they relate? (4 marks)
[4 marks]
D

Summary and Reflection

Based on the sources and your knowledge, write a short paragraph explaining the main reasons behind the mysterious disappearance of the Maya civilization. Consider environmental, social, and political factors in your answer.

1.
Write a short paragraph summarizing the main reasons for the Maya decline, using evidence from the sources and your own understanding. (4 marks)
[4 marks]

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Details

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