Fernando M. Reimers et al.

Unit 4.1

Topic Archaeology Today

Themes ICC: interpersonal; investigation and analytical skills; and
history

Region All, focus New York City

Length Three weeks

Goals and Objectives

1. Learn about the skills involved in the science of archaeology, the
questions that archaeologists seek to answer, and the study of his—
tory through the examination of material remains.

2. Inspire in students an appreciation for the links between the an—
cient past and the modern day.

3. Act by participating in several activities concerning the challenges
and opportunities of archaeology, by thinking critically about mod~
ern culture and how it may be perceived thousands of years from
now based on remains, and by learning more about one another at
the start of the new school year.

Skills and Knowledge

1. Students will follow the process of an archaeological excavation.
2. Students will use critical—thinking skills to evaluate material remains.

Overview

This unit kicks off the study of the ancient and the modern with an activity
that may be messy: a simulated archaeological dig. It is recommended that
the teacher partner with the Archaeological Institute of America (http://

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