Archaeology AS and A Level

Is this subject right for me?
Archaeology is the study of past human societies from the investigation of material remains. It is one of the most exciting subjects in the curriculum.

Archaeology combines elements of many other academic disciplines, such as Science, Art, Technology, Geography, History, Sociology, Anthropology and Religious Studies.

If you choose Archaeology you will study the nature of past societies, human achievements, religious beliefs, moral values and attitudes and their impact on individuals, groups and whole societies. This course also looks at the techniques of modern archaeological research, â€OEthemes†which are central to the study of Archaeology. You will also undertake an archaeological investigation in the second year.

What is the AS Level course content and how will it be assessed?

AS Level (Year 1)

Module 1: The Archaeology of Religion and Ritual
A study of Ancient Egyptian religion and ritual 3000BC to 50 BC and its cultural context.
40% of the total AS marks / 1 hour 15 minutes examination paper

Module 2: Archaeological Skills and Methods
A study of archaeological survey, excavation, dating and Interpretation.
60 % of the total AS marks / 1 hour 45 minutes examination paper

A2 Level (Year 2)
Module 3: World Archaeology
A study of issues in World Archaeology including: People and Society in the Past, Sites and People in the Landscape, Economics And Material culture and Contemporary issues in World Archaeology.
60% of the total marks (30% of the A Level total)
2 hour examination paper

Module 4: Archaeological Investigation
A personal coursework assignment based on research on an Archaeological topic.
40% of the total A2 marks (20% of the A Level total)

Other information

There will be continuous assessment through class discussions, student presentations, group work, essays and monitored reading assignments. There is an emphasis on opportunities for developing practical fieldwork techniques and participation in digs. Students will have an opportunity to visit Egypt to support module 1.

Many students go on to study the subject at university with a view to working in the fields of archaeology, heritage, anthropology or museum work.

What are the entry requirements?

The general entry requirements for studying at Advanced level apply, and a minimum of grade C in English Language at GCSE Level is preferred.

10/09