Anthropology 115
Spring 2007
Introduction to Archaeology
3 credits; no prerequisites
Instructor: M.G. Michlovic, Department of Anthropology and Earth Science
Office and Hours: King Hall 104 M-H, 1-3:30
Tel/email: -2035/michlovc@mnstate.edu
Class Time: MWF, 11:00-11:50am Rm: KH217
Text: None
Student Assessment
Exams: Students are required to take 4 exams during the scheduled exam time, unless there is a reasonable excuse for missing. Exams will be objective. The purpose of the exams is to discover whether students are able to use the language of archaeology and recall and apply basic facts and concepts. At the completion of this course students should be able to:
Use the vocabulary of archaeologyUnderstand how archaeological sites are discovered, excavated, and analyzedRecognize differences and similarities in the culture history of different regionsBe able to identify scientific ideas about the past and how these ideas are developed.
Test Schedule
#1: Jan 29
#2: Feb 21
#3: March 21
#4 Final Exam: Noon, May 3Class Exercises: Students will be asked to complete several class exercises for credit. Some of these may involve take-home assignments, and others will be completed in class. These are designed to provide credit for students who attend class. Make-ups will not be given for these exercises. Grades are based on total points accumulated in exams and special exercises. Students missing a test will be required to take a make-up essay test. Make-ups will not be available for the final exam. All students must take the final. Readings: May be assigned occasionally in class. Readings will be taken from internet sources, or distributed in class.Course Description:
Review of archaeological study with special emphasis on the interdisciplinary nature of archaeology. Archaeological methods and techniques are explained as aspects of the process of discovery. Introduction to the major phases in human culture history from the earliest toolmakers to the rise of civilization.Course Outline:
The course includes a review of the methods and theory of modern archaeology, including: history of the field; site discovery and excavation techniques; dating procedures; elementary analytical techniques; overview of global culture history as revealed by the archaeological record (major advances in human culture such as the beginnings of culture, the "stone age", the origins of farming and herding, and the development of complex society.) The prehistoric period is central to the course, which covers human history from the origins of culture 2.5 million years ago until the emergence of the Old World ecumene about 2500 years ago, and the rise of New World civilizations about 2000 years ago. "Students with disabilities who believe they may need an accommodation in this class are encouraged to contact Greg Toutges, Coordinator of Disability Services at 477-5859 (Voice) or 1-800-627-3529 (MRS/TTY), CMU 114 as soon as possible to ensure that accommodations are implemented in a timely fashion."
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