Sample Lessons

Scientific Methods in Archaeology

Archaeology gives students the opportunity to apply scientific methods to real situations and to hone critical thinking skills.

Archaeologists apply scientific methods by formulating plans to gather and analyze data. This information helps them to test hypotheses about the people they are studying. Research also includes analyzing the objects people made or used (artifacts) and the locations in which human activity took place (sites). For example, if archaeologists find corn at a site, they might hypothesize that the former residents were farmers, and test their hypothesis by analyzing soil samples or noting the presence or absence of farming implements. Researchers also engage in "experimental archaeology," the replication of past practices using modern materials, such as making clay pots using the coil method to learn about ceramic technology.

The lesson, "What Ought to Rot," shows how archaeologists use scientific methods. Through this activity, students learn that some evidence from past cultures survives over time, and some does not, thus influencing the conclusions that researchers can draw.