Video summary
This entertaining reality TV parody introduces a Maya labourer who has designed his own nah, or traditional Maya home.
He talks about his design, his tools and the building's sometimes bizarre features.
The presenter outlines how it will contrast in its structure with the more prominent and famous buildings in bustling Chichen Itza, such as the pyramids and temples which are still standing today.
Subtle comparisons are made with British society at the time, which pupils can explore further independently.
We tour the completed house and view its accessories, furniture and décor, with the presenter explaining the main differences between this and a nobleman’s house.
This short film is from the BBC series, History of Early Civilisations - Maya. Through parodies of reality TV shows, this series introduces different aspects of the Maya civilisation.
Teacher Notes
Research a range of traditional Maya buildings and homes.
Compare and contrast these with buildings in Britain in the same era.
Compile a class glossary of Maya terms and create a crossword with definitions.
Create own nar model with captions for display.
This short film is suitable for teaching history at Key Stages 2 and 3 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and Second and Third level in Scotland.
Maya Civilisation
Jobs in Maya civilisation. video
This entertaining reality TV parody gives an insight into traditional Maya jobs, social structure and career expectations.
Fashion in Maya civilisation. video
This entertaining reality TV parody shows traditional male and female Maya clothing, as well as fashion accessories and body decoration in different social groups.
What did the Maya eat? video
This entertaining reality TV parody introduces traditional Maya diet, ingredients and food preparation.
Mayan Innovations & Inventions. video
Maya inventors present their ideas to a panel of entrepreneurs, hoping for an investment of cacao beans, in this entertaining reality TV parody.
Islamic Golden Age, circa AD900
Jobs in 900AD Baghdad. video
This entertaining reality TV parody introduces AD900 Baghdad and the typical occupations for both men and women, touching on how women were respected but lacked influence in early Islamic society.
Great Fashion in Baghdad 900AD. video
This entertaining reality TV parody shows traditional male and female Islamic clothing circa AD900, as two plainly clothed merchants prepare to visit the House of Wisdom.
How Houses looked in Baghdad 900AD. video
In this entertaining reality TV parody, a nomad has decided to settle down in AD900 Baghdad. He designs, builds and furnishes his traditional family house.
Invention & Innovation in Baghdad 900AD. video
Insight into Islamic innovations and inventions in a parody of a popular reality TV show.
What food did they eat in Baghdad 900AD. video
This entertaining reality TV parody introduces early Islamic diet, ingredients and food preparation circa AD900.
