Course Details in 2025/26 Session

Module Title	LI Environmental Archaeology in the Lab
School	History and Cultures
Department	Classics, AH and Archaeology
Module Code	09 39675
Module Lead	David Smith
Level	Intermediate Level
Credits	20
Semester	Semester 2
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions	None
Contact Hours	Supervised time in studio/workshop-18 hours External Visits-2 hours Guided independent study-180 hours Total: 200 hours
Exclusions
Description	This module provides the student with direct hands-on experience of a range of archaeological and biological materials. It introduces the student to the main range of sources used in environmental and economic reconstruction. Students are given case studies or 'learning sets' of material and are expected to use these to reach sound conclusions about human actions in the past. Materials that may be covered include sampling strategies, animal bone, charred plant remains, insect remains, the interpretation of sediments and valley fills and an introduction to sediment description.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module students should be able to: Formulate a robust argument on the basis of the analysis of relevant primary sources; Show awareness of the main types of sources and techniques used in environmental reconstruction in archaeology;; Analyse data with awareness of possible biases; Demonstrate report-writing skills and use of complex ideas in interpreting primary data .
Assessment
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	Assessment: 1 x 3,000-word lab book, 100% Reassessment: Resubmission of failed component(s)
Other
Reading List