Aztec and Mayan Structures

thingiverse

This Was a 6th Grade Social Studies Project on Aztec and Mayan Civilizations Students were tasked with designing structures in the style of one of these two cultures. Each student selected a specific structure to model. This project aimed to allow students to model key structures from cities like Tikal or Tenochtitlan by having them design one building. The majority of models were printed at reduced sizes for time-saving purposes. Lesson Plans and Activities Were Utilized Students researched structures and artifacts from the Aztec and Mayan civilizations using the Internet. They decided on a structure or artifact to model in 3D through the use of Tinkercad.com. Students used this website to create models by combining geometric shapes. This allowed them to import two-dimensional images into their models, creating engravings and glyphs. Projects Were Printed, Checked, and Exhibited Teachers reviewed students' projects for printability and made corrections when necessary. Projects were printed and displayed. Students explained the functions or cultural significance of their structures during a classroom presentation. Objective To Design and Print a Structure or Artifact in the Style of the Mayans or Aztecs. Preparation and Background This project was part of a social studies unit comparing the Aztec and Mayan civilizations. Before creating their 3D models, students compared these two cultures by drawing Venn diagrams illustrating their similarities and differences. Students Utilized Tinkercad to Create Their Models Tinkercad.com allowed students to research structures online and then convert those images into printable designs. Geometric shapes were used to combine the models, making them solid objects that could be 3D printed. Teacher Support Was Essential Teachers ensured that students' projects were print-ready by checking for structural integrity before printing them out. This was crucial because it avoided wasted resources on flawed or poorly made designs. Student Reflections and Achievements Although some challenges arose with connecting the model parts properly or managing overhanging edges, students learned much from this project.