Both boys and girls between the ages of twelve and fifteen attended the cuicalli (the House of Song). Classes took place about an hour before sunset. Elderly members of the community taught songs, dances, and music. Attendance was compulsory, with punishment given for absenteeism. Certain elders accompanied the children to and from classes.
Sons of the common people were also educated at the telpochcalli (House of Youth). Studies included history, religion, ritual, proper behaviour, music, singing, dancing, and military training. The boys stayed overnight and performed maintenance duties. They ate at home and spent part of the day with their fathers, learning vocational skills.
Sons of the nobility attended the calmécac, which was under the control of the religious authorities. Studies included military training, religious instruction, history, painting, history, law, astrology, mathematics, government, and architecture. The students were also taught to speak well. They lived at the school.
Girls normally ended their formal education after attending the cuicacalli. However, there were similar schools to those of the boys where they learned domestic skills.
(This page was updated in December 2012.)
