How to Construct a Chichen-Itza Pyramid for School Project

Chichen-Itza is Mayan for “at the mouth of the well of Itza.” Located in the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, the archeological site is now a popular tourist attraction. Local sellers and artisans attempt to entice tourists to purchase trinkets and souvenirs on the grounds of the massive ruins. Constructing a pyramid similar to Kukulcan Pyramid, the most notable landmark at this archeological site, isn’t as difficult as it might seem. The key is to find four boxes of graduated sizes with at least three inches difference in the measurement. Check your pantry for food boxes that can be used in the project.

Stack the four boxes on top of each other with the largest at the bottom and the smallest at the top. Tape them together with masking tape.

Rip up pieces of newspapers so that they measure about 5 inches long by 5 inches wide.

Tape the bottom box to the cardboard/plywood base with the masking tape.

Wrap old towels around the cardboard/plywood base to protect it from getting wet or soiled.

Pour the liquid fabric starch into a bucket or bowl.

Dip the pieces of newspaper into the liquid starch one piece at a time and place the wet newspaper strips onto the boxes, covering the entire stack of boxes so that no box is visible. Smooth the wet paper so no bulges or large wrinkles are present. Allow to dry for at least 24 hours.

Paint the dried boxes with tan paint and allow to dry.

Decorate the base as desired. Fake grasses and vegetation and small figures are available at hobby stores where electric train supplies are sold.