Overview and Outcomes:

This is a three-week Writing Root using the fictional narrative The Rain Player as well as making reference to the non-fiction information within History in Infographics: The Maya.  The sequence of learning begins with a ball arriving in the classroom with a warning asking children if they dare to play the most dangerous game of all time!  Children go on to use this information they have learned to write instructions for pok-a-tok, posters, a missing scene, newspaper reports, conduct debates and write analytical essays.

Synopsis of Text:

The ancient Mayan belief that the future was divinely decreed and could not be changed is the basis for this original tale of a boy who must defeat the Rain God in a ball game to save his people from disaster. Mayan art and architecture were the inspiration for the spectacular cut-paper artwork.

Text Rationale:

This beautiful picture book makes direct links with the history of the Mayan civilisation as the story cleverly weaves aspects of the ancient customs and beliefs through the narrative. Children will learn about Mayan culture as it was then and the ways in which we still see influences around us today. Themes such as loyalty and bravery are also explored and colourful cut-paper artwork will engage children throughout.  

Links and Themes:

Maya, the Mayans, chocolate, Pok-a-Tok, Fair Trade, Aztecs, Incas, South America, civilisations, gods, bravery, loyalty

Date written: January 2019