| A | B |
| ancestors | members of your family who lived a long time ago, usually before your grandparents. |
| archaeological | to do with the study of ancient objects and people of the past. |
| astronomers | people who study the stars, planets, and space |
| city-states | states that are suled over by cities. |
| civilization | a highly developed and organized society. |
| drought | a long period with little or no rain. |
| hieroglyphics | a form of writing made up of pictures and symbols. |
| nutrients | substances that are needed by people, animals, and plants to stay strong and healthy. |
| observatories | buildings used for studying the sky and the stars. |
| obsidian | a hard volcanic glass that can be sharpened. |
| society | the members of a community or group considered together. |
| thatched | having a soof covering made from straw or reeds. |
| Mesoamerica | Places where the ancient Maya lived. It includes what are now parts of the countries of Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador. |