How did the Mayans do maths?

The Maya used the vigesimal system for their calculations – a system based on 20 rather than 10. This means that instead of the 1, 10, 100, 1,000 and 10,000 of our mathematical system, the Maya used 1, 20, 400, 8,000 and 160,000.

What did the Maya do with their math skills?

The sophisticated Mayan system of math enabled them to develop accurate time measurements (among the most accurate ever developed), erect huge step-pyramids, and control a vast system of trading with neighboring civilizations.

Did the Mayans play games?

The ancient Maya ballgame called pitz was part of Maya political, religious, and social life. Played with a rubber ball ranging in size from that of a softball to a soccer ball, players would attempt to bounce the ball without using their hands through stone hoops attached to the sides of the ball court.

Are Mayans good at math?

The Maya developed a sophisticated system of mathematics based on a place value of 20. They were one of few ancient cultures to use the concept of zero, allowing them to count into the millions. Using their sophisticated mathematical system, the ancient Maya developed precise and accurate calendars.

What games did the Maya play for kids?

The Maya played the earliest team sport in the world – a ball game, a game using a rubber ball and two opposing teams on a ball court. Ball courts were usually placed at the base of a temple because all games were held to honor the Maya gods.

How did the Mayan ball game work?

The ball, made out of rubber, was about the size of a volleyball and weighed between 6 to 10 pounds. Players would play on teams of two to four. Each team passed the ball back and forth between themselves and members of the opposing team. They were only allowed to hit the ball with their legs, arms and hips.

How do you write 399 in Mayan numbers?

399 is nineteen 20s plus 19, which makes it the largest number you can write with two Mayan ‘digits’. To write 400, think of it as twenty 20s. So 400 is written as a dot, a gap, a clamshell, a gap and a second clamshell. The single dot is in the twenties place, and the 11 is in the ones place, so this number is 31.

How did the Maya write 0?

In order to write numbers down, there were only three symbols needed in this system. A horizontal bar represented the quantity 5, a dot represented the quantity 1, and a special symbol (thought to be a shell) represented zero.