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Archaeology is the scientific study of human history through material remains. These remains can be objects that people created, modified, or used, such as tools, clothing, and decorations. Non-portable remains, such as pyramids or post-holes, are called features.
Vocabulary:
Artifact: An object or item made or modified by humans, typically of cultural or historical significance, that has been unearthed through archaeological excavation.
Excavation: The process of systematically digging and removing layers of soil and debris at an archaeological site to uncover and study artifacts, structures, and other cultural remains.
Stratigraphy: The study of the layers or strata of soil and sediment at an archaeological site, which helps archaeologists establish the relative chronology of finds and understand the sequence of events.
Carbon Dating: A method used to determine the age of organic materials, such as wood or bone, by measuring the decay of radioactive carbon isotopes, typically carbon-14.
Ceramic: Objects made from clay that have been shaped, fired, and often decorated, such as pottery or ceramics, which are important artifacts for dating and understanding ancient cultures.
Trowel: A small, pointed tool with a flat blade used by archaeologists for digging, excavating, and carefully exposing artifacts without causing damage.
Survey: The preliminary examination of an archaeological area to identify potential sites of interest, often involving surface reconnaissance, mapping, and the collection of surface artifacts.
Context: The surrounding conditions, associations, and environmental factors in which an artifact or feature is found, providing important information about its use and significance.
Midden: A trash or refuse heap, often consisting of discarded food remains, broken pottery, and other discarded items, which can reveal valuable insights into ancient diets and lifestyles.
Anthropology: The broader field of study that encompasses archaeology, focusing on the study of human societies, cultures, and behaviors, both past and present. Archaeology is a subfield of anthropology.
Simulated archaeology excavations for kids can help students develop research skills and higher order thinking skills. Here are some ideas for creating a simulated archaeology excavation for kids:
Use a shoe box, sand tray, or plastic paddling pool.
Add sand and stones to the bottom of the box or tray to simulate bedrock. You can also add fossils or shells.
Cover the stones with soil. Each soil layer should be about 1-2 cm deep.
Mix equal parts sand, gravel, water, and plaster of Paris. Allow the mixture to set for a couple of hours.
Use tools like trowels and brushes to uncover buried artifacts.
Record the artifacts on a grid to show where each object was found.
Have students observe a portion of the school yard over several months.
Have students record the site as an archaeological survey.
Bake pieces of clay pots into chocolate brownie mix.
Archaeology research can help students develop research skills and higher order thinking skills. Students can also participate in reflective thinking as they analyze new discoveries.
Jobs on an excavation:
Principal Investigator/Project Director: The lead archaeologist responsible for overall project planning, direction, and decision-making. They oversee the research objectives and ensure the project's success.
Field Archaeologist: These archaeologists conduct hands-on work at the excavation site. They dig, sift through soil, and recover artifacts while following proper excavation techniques.
Surveyor: Experts in using surveying equipment to map and document the excavation site accurately. They create site plans, measure distances, and establish reference points.
Artifact Conservator: Specialists responsible for cleaning, stabilizing, and preserving artifacts recovered from the site. They ensure artifacts remain in good condition for analysis and future research.
Archaeological Illustrator: Artists or illustrators who create detailed drawings, sketches, or digital representations of artifacts, features, and excavation trenches.
Photographer and Videographer: Document the excavation process, artifacts, and site features through photographs and videos, often for research records and public outreach.
Archaeological Surveyor: Conduct surface surveys to identify potential archaeological sites or features before excavation begins. They may use aerial photography, satellite imagery, or ground-penetrating radar.
Lab Analyst: Work in a laboratory setting to analyze artifacts, ecofacts, and samples. They may conduct various tests, such as radiocarbon dating, pottery analysis, or pollen analysis.
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