Shoe Box Archaeology

Students compare and contrast the role of scientists with that of archaeologists. They also describe the roles of observations and evidence in science.

What would future archeologists learn from your scholars' personal belongings? Have them bring in a box of "primary sources" from their home. Discuss the difference between observations and inference, using some of your own items to...

Class members will dig this activity that has them trying their hand at recovering artifacts. Groups are assigned a section of a sandbox, carefully uncover the artifacts in their section, and then develop theories about who might...

A 12-minute virtual tour introduces viewers to the newest exhibition at the Plymouth Plantation museum. The video, featuring artifacts from an archaeological dig at historic Patuxet and Plymouth, begins with Wampanoag displays and moves...

Students assemble a shoe box following a layered pattern alternating between soil and artifacts. The layers of artifacts begin with the grandparents and end with the student's own personal possessions.

Young scholars explore how an archaeologist works and makes discoveries. In this archaeology lesson, students participate in a simulation in which they excavate broken pottery. Young scholars use measurement, geometry, and observation...

Middle schoolers, in groups, examine in depth one aspect of forensic archaeology to determine the skeleton's age, gender, and possible cause of death. To do so, students must first explain what is involved in each aspect of forensic...

Young archaeologists practice their mapping skills by creating a detailed site map of their room or another room in their home. After indicating walls, windows, doors, and closets, they add furniture and objects, labeling each item.

Archaeology digs are much like giant jigsaw puzzles. The artifacts found are often in pieces and scientists must reconstruct them. A hands-on activity lets young archaeologists experience this facet of the job as they create, smash, and...

Students evaluate how archaeologists use soils to interpret sites and determine components of a soil sample.