... , The Mayas developed astronomy, a calendar system, hieroglyphic writing, ceremonial architecture, and masonry without metal tools. Maya civilization started to decline around A.D900, although some centuries continued to thrive until the Spanish conquest in the early sixteenth century. THE BEGINNING The ancient civilization of the Mayas are said to be part of an era known as the postclassical (900-1500) period. The ... business of the state, and establishing architectural projects. The major duty of the king was to interact with the spiritual world to bring power back to the real world t...

• Word Count: 1421
• Approx Pages: 6
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

... 20 feet, and can weigh well over 3000 pounds" (Cayman.org). Because of this, and their gentle nature, these creatures have become a favorite attraction for divers. Manta comes from the Spanish word-meaning blanket, which describes their unique body shape (Reef Briefs). Their skeletal structure is very similar to that of a shark, which is made out of cartilage (McEachran). Because of ... redirected to the ray's stomach for digestion" (Reef Brief). The cephalic fins, or "horns" which people called them, are fins that extend forward from the eyes, which helps the manta guide large amounts ...

• Word Count: 1589
• Approx Pages: 6
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School