Introduction to Archaeology

June 21-July 1, 2027 Rose Hill

3 credits

In this 3-credit course, students explore archaeology and the ways artifacts illuminate major cultural developments. Through discussions of current practices and themes, the course provides a foundation in contemporary archaeological approaches.

Students gain a working understanding of material culture, archaeological sites, and the archaeological record. Emphasis is placed on both fieldwork and laboratory techniques, offering insight into the diverse methods, theories, and activities that define the archaeologist’s craft. Visits to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and hands-on activities analyzing artifacts provide opportunities to connect archaeological theory with real-world practice.

Students will:

• Understand the main concepts in the field of Archaeology and how it was developed.

• Learn about different methods of fieldwork, analysis, and interpretation used in archaeological research.

• Apply basic archaeological practices through brief experiences in fieldwork, experimental archaeology, and laboratory analysis. 

• Develop and increase critical thinking skills.

Overall Takeaways

Students will learn how to think like archaeologists through the analysis of artifacts, replicas, and documentaries, developing a deeper understanding of the interpretation process of the past and learning to differentiate between scientific research and pseudo-archaeology.

Instructor Bio

Dr. Maria Ester Venezia is an archaeologist expert in lithic analysis (stone tools). She is fascinated with different cultures, human behavior, and teaching techniques. She likes to spend her free time playing with her kids and enjoying the New York Public Library's audiobook catalog.

Course Schedule

Week 1

Monday

• Objective, important information and expectations about the course, policies and evaluation method.

• Brief History of Archaeology, theories, and methods

Tuesday

• Formation of archaeological sites and the importance of context 
• Archaeological record and preservation
• Fieldwork activity: How are archaeological sites found?

Wednesday

• Deconstructing with technique: Methods of excavation
• How old is an archaeological site?
• Laboratory activity: Processing, classification, and curation
• Describing, analyzing, and reconstructing the environment

Thursday

• Plants that “talk” - Analyzing botanical remains
• Learning from faunal remains
• What did they eat? Diet data from human remains
• Classroom Activity: Testing your knowledge

Friday

• Material remains and technology
• Laboratory in the classroom - "Unaltered materials": How are stone tools analyzed?
• Experimental Archaeology: Flintknapping demonstration
• How are other "unaltered" materials and textiles analyzed?

Week 2

Monday

• How are synthetic materials analyzed?
• Experimental archaeology: Basics of ceramics hand-building techniques
• Laboratory in the classroom: How is pottery analyzed?
• Classroom Activity: Testing your knowledge

Tuesday

• Visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art
  • Egypt (~5000 - ~2000BP)
  • Symbols, power, and representations
  • Early knowledge: Language, manufacturing, rituals, and writing
  • Measurements, maps, places, and memory

Wednesday

• What can the dead tell us?: Analyzing human remains
• Population, migration, and societies
• Classroom Activity: Testing your knowledge

Thursday

• Final assessment pt. 1: Critical analysis of the documentary Ancient Mass Production: How was the Terracota Army Made?
• Final assessment pt. 2: Questionnaire

2027 applications will open in late November. Please sign up to stay informed about the Fordham Summer Leaders Academy, or email us with questions!