Task Definition:

     Central and South America is one of the most diverse regions in the world.  Geographically, it is a land of extremes. The soaring heights of the Andes Mountains contrast drastically with the depths of the Great Central Lowland. The humid, tropical Amazon Rainforest differs greatly with the arid Pantagonia region.
     Three major civilizations, the Maya, Aztec and Inca, sprung from this region and reflected the diversity of the lands that contained them. Each civilization was unique- varying in many aspects such as social structure, religion, government, economy, climate and science and technology.
     For this project, you will explore each of the civilizations and debate the strengths and weaknesses of each. Once completed, you will be asked to create a hybrid Meso-American civilization, fusing together the best aspects of all three civilizations.

     This project will take several days to complete. Since there is limited class time available, keep in mind that you must use your time wisely!

Day One: After receiving initial instructions, you will be divided into groups of three.  Each individual will be responsible for 1/3 of the total research.

You will then receive your research packets and your research topics. Your research packets will help you organize your research.

Day Two: You will complete your research in the LMC.

Day Three: Today, you will join together with the other members of your group and compare your research. As a group you will decide which Meso-American Civilization possessed the best aspect of each of the following six topics:

RESEARCH TOPICS:
- Social Structure
- Religion
- Government
- Economy
- Science and Technology
- Physical location/geography

Written Component: After completing your vote, you are to write a paragraph each on the two categories that you were initially assigned. In the paragraphs you will justify the reason why you feel a certain civilization’s religion, economy, etc.was superior over the others.

MAPS: You will be expected to complete three maps on Central and South America. The topics of the three maps is as follows:

- Historical map of Central and South America. The Maya, Inca and Aztec empires need to be represented.
Locate and label the Civilizations of:
Mayans, Incas, Aztecs

- Physical map of Central and South America.

Andes Mountains             Sierra Madre Occidental
Sierra Madre del Sur      Brazilian Highlands
Gulf of Mexico                 Sierra Madre Oriental
Caribbean Sea                 Bay of Campeche
Panama Canal

- Political map of Central and South America.

All current country boundaries and capitals must be represented.
Venezuela       Paraguay       Nicaragua
Colombia        Uruguay         Costa Rica
Guyana           Argentina       Panama
Suriname        Chile               French Guiana
Ecuador          Guatemala    Brazil
Peru                Belize              El Salvador
Bolivia            Honduras       Mexico