We also offer workshops for smaller groups on the Ancient Maya from glyph writing to Maya math. These are ideally suited to when the students are studying Mesoamerica (We also have a range of free lesson plans for teachers.)
Each presentation can last from 40-60 minutes to fit your schedule, and we can offer up to three presentations (plus a book signing session, if required) during the school day. It is not necessary for students to have read ‘Middleworld’ to enjoy the presentation, nor do they need prior knowledge of the Maya world. (See J&P in action at an event in Vermont)
Who’s it for?
The program is ideal for grades 5-8.
Books are also available online from Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com and similar sites.
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See J&P in action at an event in Vermont.
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Press coverage of school visits
November 2007
November 2007
February 2008
April 2009
What have schools said?
“Jon and Pamela Voelkel ... gave about the best presentation for kids that I have ever seen ... the response from both kids and teachers (particularly librarians) was phenomenal. The Voelkels turned a group of kids who were happy to be out of class, but otherwise just slunk low in their seats, into active and enthusiastic participants... The Voelkels arrive in their pith helmets and serve as tour guides through the rainforests of Central America. It’s when they spray the kids with water for authenticity’s sake that the kids really sit up and know this isn’t going to be adult talking at them for 45 minutes.”
Jennifer Stark, Customer Relations Manager
Barnes & Noble/Lincoln Center, NY
“I’ve been teaching for 20 years and this was, without doubt, the best presentation I’ve seen.”
Pat Donovan, Academic Enrichment
Gloversville Middle School, NY
“The Voelkels’ presentation for their adventure book, ‘Middleworld’, was multi-sensory! Students at Edmunds Middle School were engaged by the passion demonstrated by the Voelkels for the Maya culture. They provided us with an adventure tour and a standard based curriculum that is hands-on, creative and educational.”
Carole Renca, Librarian
Edmunds Middle School, Burlington, VT
“Congratulations on a beautiful presentation that kept the students interested and engaged all the time!!! That was a wonderful experience for my kids.”
Gloria Estrella
Wakefield Middle School, Tucson, AZ
“Jon and Pamela just finished a full day at our school for their book Middleworld. WOW!!! THEY ARE WONDERFUL!!! The students were sucked into their presentation and didn’t want it to end.”
Jacqueline R. Welch-Doubek, Librarian
Mannion Middle School, NV
“A unique, attention-grabbing multimedia show. The humor, history, and special effects were very well-received by our students, and though they gave 3 presentations in a row, the energy level remained high! The authors continually interacted with the audience, keeping them actively involved and continually learning about the Ancient Maya. The program was age-appropriate, enjoyable, and highly recommended.
Nancy Hemel-Brisco, Librarian
The Vail School, Tucson, AZ
"I can't tell you how much we all enjoyed your visit to Lafayette last week. It was one of the best presentations we have ever had."
Debbie Boutwell, Librarian,
Lafayette Middle School, MS
© Voelkel, 2008/2009
