Lesson 1: The Land Between the Rivers

Send In Activity 1:
The Science of Archaeology

Most of our knowledge of Mesopotamia—and other ancient civilizations—is due to the work of archaeologists. Archaeologists dig underground for objects from the past. These objects tell archaeologists a great deal about the people who made them and how they lived.

In this activity you will visit a dig and help Casey the archaeologist unravel an ancient mystery. You will use the tools of the trade—such as a shovel, a dirt sifter, and a surveyor—to explore and excavate the site. You will then collect the evidence you uncovered and predict what it means. These will be your best guesses—there are no right answers.

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One last note before you start:

You will be completing three analysis exercises in this activity. The explanation for each of them may be a bit confusing, so we have provided some additional details to help you out. Print these and read over them when you get to each exercise.

Analysis Exercise #1:

How do these remains prove there was human activity at this site?

Analysis Exercise #2:

The sifter revealed some seeds and pollen. The remains of an animal whose skull had been crushed were also found. A large burnt piece of wood was also discovered close to the animal's head. Its bones appear to have been burnt as well.

What do these remains say about the activities that occurred in this layer? Is there any evidence of human activity? How did the animal die? Use your imagination!

Analysis Exercise #3:

Human remains were discovered at this dig level. We found a piece of broken rib with sharp abrasions on the bone. We observed a sword with nicks on the blade, which was found near the hand of the skeleton. There was also a cracked clay pot nearby.

What do these remains say about this layer? What do you think happened? Remember to consider any possibility, even if it seems far-fetched.

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Activity 1: Anatomy of a Dig

Print your answers at the end by clicking on the End Activity button. Submit these to your teacher for marking.

 

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