A level Archaeology

Archaeology


Why should I study Archaeology?
Archaeology is an interesting and stimulating subject which explores ways of finding out more about the past in an attempt to discover more about human behaviour. The AS course concentrates particularly on how archaeologists work and is very varied. The first AS module and the A2 course focuses on what can be said, from Archaeological evidence, about some key areas of human experience. The second AS module is on Archaeological techniques. If you enjoy Timeteam on TV you will be fascinated by A Level Archaeology.

What will I study?
AS Units
At AS, this specification will introduce you to the world of archaeology and archaeologists. Through the medium of one of the key themes in world archaeology, Religion and Ritual, you will develop your understanding of archaeological processes.

Unit 1:
The Archaeology of Religion and Ritual

• Belief systems and activities related to such beliefs
• Mortuary practices and activities related to such beliefs
• Mortuary practices and

their related structures

• Religious beliefs and ritual practices
• Ritual locations and specific structures

Unit 2:
Archaeological Skills and Methods

• Discovering, recording sites and landscapes
• Archaeological excavation: the rationale for excavation, processes of excavation, on-site recovery of artefacts and recording techniques
• Post-excavation dating and site interpretation

A2 Units
The specification provides opportunities for critical thinking and independent study. You will consider further key themes in world archaeology, including contemporary archaeological issues, and you will undertake an archaeological investigation.

Unit 3:
World Archaeology

• Three generic themes in world archaeology: people and society in the past, sites and people in the landscape and economics and material culture.
• Contemporary issues in world archaeology such as cultural resource management, archaeology identity and archaeology and evolution.

Unit 4:
Archaeological Investigation

• Undertaking personal investigation and enquiry
• Acquiring, selecting and organising relevant knowledge
• Using and understanding appropriate skills in the analysis of archaeological questions
• Evaluating material and reaching appropriate conclusions.

What skills do I need?

• Be curious about the past
• Interested in what makes people â€OEtickâ€
• Willing to think about, discuss and investigate the meaning of evidence
• Able to communicate your ideas both verbally and in writing.

How will I be taught?
A variety of methods are used including discussion, worksheets, paired work and some practical activities. There are also extra-curricular site visits and field trips.

How is the course assessed?
AS units are assessed by means of two written examinations. At A2 there is a combination of essays and stimulus response questions in a two hour written examination, plus a personal study which accounts for 40% of the A2 marks.

What will this course prepare me for?
You may get hooked on the subject and continue to study Archaeology at university. You can also go on to a whole range of subjects from law to media or sciences. Other popular choices include History, Geophysics, Geography and heritage management.

Private Study
As an approximate guideline AS subjects require 3-4 hrs of independent study each; A2 subjects 4-5 hrs each and GCSE subjects 2 hrs each.

What materials will I need to purchase?
Not applicable