12 of 55 results for "Ancient Worlds"
Printable
Country Fact File: Mexico

What country is home to ancient pyramids, colorful monarch butterflies, towering volcanoes, and one of the world’s most famous celebrations? Meet Mexico, a country where ancient civilizations, diverse landscapes, and vibrant traditions come together.

From the Aztec and Maya to pumas and whale sharks, Mexico has a remarkable story to tell. Explore the civilizations that shaped the country, discover how Mexico gained independence from Spain, and learn about its food, festivals, languages, government, and cities. You’ll also discover how deserts, mountains, jungles, and coastlines provide habitats for an amazing variety of plants and animals.

Teachers and parents, you can use this fact file to:

  • Introduce a geography or social studies unit
  • Support nonfiction reading practice
  • Compare countries and cultures
  • Complete map and research activities
  • Prepare students for projects or presentations (use our country report template!)
  • Pair with videos, articles, or other informational texts (see Related Resources below)
Kahoot
Kahoot! Could Life Exist on Mars?

Explore the search for life beyond Earth in this Kahoot about Mars, scientific discovery, and one of humanity's biggest questions. From evidence of ancient water to clues hidden in the planet's surface, discover why scientists believe Mars may once have had the conditions needed to support life.

This Kahoot explores Martian geology, the role of water in sustaining life, and the tools scientists use to investigate distant worlds while uncovering what researchers look for when searching for signs of life beyond Earth.

Watch the videos about Mars linked below, then take the Kahoot and see how much you know about the Red Planet and the ongoing search for life in our Solar System.

Video
The Journey of Blood Flow

In The Journey of Blood Flow, Dr. Michael Mosley explores how our understanding of circulation has evolved from ancient ideas to modern science. From William Harvey’s groundbreaking discovery to advanced imaging and engineering innovations, he reveals how blood moves through a vast and complex system in the body. This video is excerpted from BBC’s The Wonderful World of Blood, in which Dr. Michael Mosley carries out six experiments on his own blood, from starving it of oxygen to injecting it with snake venom.

Printable
Country Fact File: Japan

What island country is home to ancient temples, bustling cities, active volcanoes, and some of the world’s most unusual wildlife? Meet Japan, a country where centuries-old traditions and cutting-edge technology come together.

From Mount Fuji and the cherry blossoms to Japanese macaques and loggerhead turtles, Japan has an incredible variety of landscapes and living things. Discover how Japan’s islands and mountains have shaped its people and culture, explore key moments in its history, and learn about its government, language, food, and traditions. Along the way, you’ll uncover some surprising facts about this fascinating country.

Teachers and parents, you can use this fact file to:

  • Introduce a geography or social studies unit
  • Support nonfiction reading practice
  • Compare countries and cultures
  • Complete map and research activities
  • Prepare students for projects or presentations (use our country report template!)
  • Pair with videos, articles, or other informational texts (see Related Resources below)
Printable
Country Fact File: China

What country has the world’s largest population, some of the oldest traditions on Earth, and landscapes ranging from towering mountains to vast deserts? Meet China, a country where ancient history and modern life exist side by side.

From the Forbidden City to giant pandas to the peaks of the Himalayas, China is filled with remarkable places, people, and wildlife. Explore how geography has shaped life across the country, discover important moments in China’s long history, and learn about its languages, government, food, traditions, and growing cities. You’ll also meet some of China’s unique animals!

Teachers and parents, you can use this fact file to:

  • Introduce a geography or social studies unit
  • Support nonfiction reading practice
  • Compare countries and cultures
  • Complete map and research activities
  • Prepare students for projects or presentations (use our country report template!)
  • Pair with videos, articles, or other informational texts (see Related Resources below)
Kahoot
Kahoot! The Great Wall of China

Journey across Great Wall of China and discover the story behind one of the most impressive structures ever built. Students will explore how different sections of the wall were constructed over centuries, why rulers believed it was important for protection and defense, and what it reveals about power, leadership, and human determination.

This Kahoot examines the history and engineering of the Great Wall, including the materials used to build it, the soldiers and workers who maintained it, and the challenges of constructing such a massive structure across mountains and deserts. Students will also discover why the wall became one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and remains one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks.

Ideal for lessons on history, geography, engineering, and world cultures, this Kahoot encourages students to explore the lasting legacy of ancient Chinese civilization and one of humanity’s greatest building achievements.

Kahoot
Kahoot! Machu Picchu

Discover the mysteries of Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca city hidden high in the Andes Mountains. Students will explore who built this remarkable mountain settlement, why it may have been abandoned, and how it became one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

This Kahoot examines the engineering, architecture, and beliefs of the Inca Empire, including the stone structures, terraces, and pathways that allowed people to live in harmony with the steep mountain environment. Students will also discover what Machu Picchu reveals about Inca culture, religion, and scientific understanding.

Ideal for lessons on history, geography, engineering, and world cultures, this Kahoot encourages students to explore the lasting achievements and ingenuity of one of the world’s most fascinating ancient civilizations.

Kahoot
Kahoot! Chichén Itzá

Discover the wonders of Chichén Itzá, one of the most important cities of the ancient Maya world and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Students will explore how the Maya used astronomy, mathematics, and engineering to create impressive temples and monuments that still amaze people today.

This Kahoot examines the history and design of Chichén Itzá, including the famous pyramid El Castillo, the role of calendars and celestial observations in Maya society, and the beliefs and traditions that shaped daily life. Students will also discover how ancient knowledge and culture influenced the construction of one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in the world.

Ideal for lessons on history, world cultures, mathematics, and geography, this Kahoot encourages students to explore the achievements and lasting legacy of the Maya civilization.

Kahoot
Kahoot! The Colosseum

Discover the story behind the Colosseum, one of the most famous landmarks of the ancient world. Students will explore where the Colosseum is located, why it was built, and how it became a powerful symbol of life in the Roman Empire.

This Kahoot examines the history and design of the Colosseum, including the events held inside the massive arena, the engineering techniques used to construct it, and the role it played in entertainment and Roman society. Students will also discover fascinating facts about gladiators, architecture, and daily life in ancient Rome.

Ideal for lessons on history, world cultures, architecture, and geography, this Kahoot encourages students to explore the lasting legacy of one of the world’s most iconic ancient monuments.

Playlist
Video Playlist: Stories of Native Americans

Experience powerful stories of Native American life — ancient, historical, and modern — in this inspiring playlist from the BBC. Featuring authentic video clips from BBC News reports and acclaimed BBC documentaries, students will experience a vivid, first-hand look at the voices, traditions, and challenges of Indigenous peoples across North America.

They’ll explore the Iroquois Constitution, a foundational document that influenced democracy itself; discover the remarkable cliffside cities at Mesa Verde; and learn how Native communities are leading buffalo restoration efforts that bring both ecological and cultural renewal. Students will also see the beauty of traditional arts like hoop dance and gain perspective on the political and community issues shaping Native life today.

These stories offer an unforgettable window into Indigenous identity, resilience, and connection to the land — helping students better understand both the past and the living cultures that continue to shape our world.

Blog Post
Lights, Camera, Inquiry! 6 Smart Ways to Use Video in Social Studies
From sparking curiosity to building background knowledge, here are simple ways to make video an active learning tool in your history classroom.
Playlist
The Wonders of the World Video Playlist

Embark on an epic adventure with this playlist all about the modern wonders of the world! Discover the secrets of the Great Pyramid of Giza, walk along the Great Wall of China, explore the ancient city of Petra, and uncover the mysteries of Machu Picchu. From the towering ruins of Chichén Itzá to the iconic Colosseum and the breathtaking beauty of the Taj Mahal, each video brings history to life and shows why these places are so incredible