Archaeology is the study of our past through systematic recovery and study of material items. These items are often found through a complex process of digging. In order to stay on top of everything that is going on, and to help ensure that a minimal number of subtle clues are missed, archaeologists take voluminous notes. When they need to later write a report or examine data, their journal becomes an important tool.
Stonehenge is the first archaeological site we studied. It was built in the late Stone Age during the Neolithic period. Because this site is part of pre-history (before our written records begin) we know very little about why it was built, but the excavation of cremated bones of adult men within the site has led archaeologists to question whether it was a burial site for respected leaders.
Stonehenge is the first archaeological site we studied. It was built in the late Stone Age during the Neolithic period. Because this site is part of pre-history (before our written records begin) we know very little about why it was built, but the excavation of cremated bones of adult men within the site has led archaeologists to question whether it was a burial site for respected leaders.
In class activities:
- defined the word archaeology and discussed what the job of an archaeologist is
- learned about the most recent excavations of Stonehenge
- viewed images of Stonehenge & discussed the late stone age/early bronze age
- learned that druids were not the builders of Stonehenge
- set up our own field notes (journals)
- drew our first dig site grid, labeled locations of finds, and cardinal directions
- It was beautiful outside, so we ran around the building playing a cardinal directions game
- learned about the importance of context & observations in archaeology
Lesson extension activities:
These are great sites, and your child may enjoy checking them weekly for new information.
- ArchNet: index of quality archaeological sites. Check the "new and uncategorized" section for recent additions
- Anthropology in the News: The latest finds, discoveries, and controversies. Updated frequently. Great for getting the real story behind a vague facebook posting.
Stonehenge activities
- Activity Village offers many printable about Stonehenge
- Build your own Stonehenge out of Rice Cereal Treats
- Ask your child to draw their home and, using a compass, indicate which way is north.
- I will not assign any writing, but I highly recommend that older students write at least one paper during the course of this term. The sites listed above offer plenty of inspiration and resources for research.
- The following two mysteries offer a humorous way to study the academics of archaeology. Though not true stories or set in ancient times, they have been recommended to me because of their approachability. Note: I HAVE NOT pre-read these books, but will be going through the first one with my children during the semester, and will notify you if I find anything inappropriate for young children. UPDATE: These books contain some inappropriate language and innuendo. Due to that and the dense vocabulary, I would not assign them to anyone younger than high-school. However, I found that I was able to quickly edit anything inappropriate during our read-aloud time, so if you are interested in working through the books together these may be a good fit for your family.
- Death by Theory: A Tale of Mystery and Archaeological Theory
- Dug to Death: A Tale of Archaeological Method and Mayhem
Assignment:
- Bring one measuring implement to class, and begin thinking about why this is one of the most important tools in the field. Archaeologists are famous for their use of metal tape measures, but any ruler do. The kids will be leaving these in their dig-kits for the next few weeks, so please label it appropriately. I want to make sure everyone's items make it home.
Parents - This class is much larger than I originally expected. In order to keep our projects fun and hands-on, I'm going to need some help with clean up. If you are available for 5-10 minutes after class to either sweep or fold tables & chairs, please let me know.
Update 2/8/16: I was just looking at the March/April copy of British Archaeology (yeah, I know it is only the beginning of February, but magazines hate to look outdated) and they shared information about new finds that contradict what I spoke to your kids about in class. There were, in fact, several women found among the cremated remains in Stonehenge, which will change how the data about this society is interpreted. As always, history is constantly being revealed!
Update 2/8/16: I was just looking at the March/April copy of British Archaeology (yeah, I know it is only the beginning of February, but magazines hate to look outdated) and they shared information about new finds that contradict what I spoke to your kids about in class. There were, in fact, several women found among the cremated remains in Stonehenge, which will change how the data about this society is interpreted. As always, history is constantly being revealed!
