This History video supports teachers in introducing Year 3 and 4 pupils to the structure of the ancient Maya civilisation, showing how it was organised into independent city states rather than a single empire. Each city-state, such as the powerful Tikal, was led by a king who also served as chief priest, overseeing warfare, governance and religious practices. The video provides context for teaching the significance of city-states, kingship and geography, highlighting differences between the northern and southern lowlands and recent archaeological discoveries, such as the city of Xil, to show how our understanding of the Maya continues to grow.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s History Years 3 and 4 videos, which enable teachers and pupils to explore the past and understand how it has shaped the world today.

See more of our Key stage 2 History scheme of work.

• History, Year 4: How did the achievements of the ancient Maya impact their society and beyond? Lesson 5: What do remains tell us about ancient Maya cities?
• History, Year 4: How did the achievements of the ancient Maya impact their society and beyond?
• History, Y3/4 (B): How did the achievements of the ancient Maya impact their society and beyond?
• History, Y3/4 (B): How did the achievements of the ancient Maya impact their society and beyond? Lesson 5: What do remains tell us about ancient Maya cities?