Grades 9-12; Five 15-minute episodes
Carry students into the lives and perspectives of three distinct early cultures, Egyptian, Incan and Mayan.

101. History of Construction and Materials This episode examines the progression of human shelter, from huts and tents for nomadic hunters through more permanent structures as humankind became more settled. Looks at the varied availability and uses of materials, and concludes with descriptions of the construction of skyscrapers and "intelligent buildings."

102. Egyptian Culture This episode focuses on the ancient Egyptians' search for immortality. Illustrates the incredible precision of the pyramids' construction, and introduces the technique-and mystique-of mummification.

103. The Incan Empire Explores the agricultural strengths of the Incan society-including the effects it had on modern farming-and examines its architectural remnants. The culture is portrayed as intelligent, although illiterate.

104. The Mayas, Part 1 Reviews the history of the human race up through the Mayan civilization. The Mayan culture was important because of its literacy, remarkably accurate astronomy, and methods of recording the passage of time.

105. The Mayas, Part 2 Examines the changes to Mayan culture from invasions by the Toltecs and the Spanish up through the fall of the Mayan civilization. Looks at social activities, such as the ballgame called "pelota," as well as religious customs, which included human sacrifice.