The Maya were masters of mathematics and astronomy. Learn some Maya math and then create your own math problem.

At The Maya Astronomy Page:

• Click Geographical Orientation. Read the facts about where the Maya lived.

• Go back to the Maya Astronomy Page. Click Maya Mathematics.

What to do next

Using Maya math symbols, write the following:

1. Your age


2. Your grade in school


3. The number of days that are in September



Hint: Maya math is based on 20s. On a separate piece of paper, draw two squares, one under the other. Your squares must be large enough to write Maya math symbols in.

In the top square, put the symbol for the number of 20s you need.

_____ x20 = _____

In the bottom square, put the symbol for the number of 1s you need to add.

_____ x1 = _____

Together, they show the number of days in September.

To complete your project

Make up a simple addition problem. Use numbers that are less than 20. Write your problem on a sheet of paper using Maya math symbols. Exchange papers with another group and solve each other’s problem. Write the answer in Maya symbols.