Module overview
The extraction and characterization of ancient molecules and the measurement of stable and radioactive isotopes has revolutionized archaeology over the past two decades and remains at the cutting edge of archaeological science. From the identification of chemical signatures of past foods to the ability to track an individual's movement on a month by month basis, new pictures of the past are emerging as a result of archaeology at the atomic and molecular level. This module aims to give you an understanding of these cutting edge techniques and their application, along with an ability to critically appraise their results.
Linked modules
ARCH1047
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- The application of DNA techniques for archaeological research.
- The significance of isotopic analysis for dietary reconstruction
- The role of isotopes in understanding mobility and migration in human and animal populations.
- The application of lipid and other molecular analysis in archaeology
- Current debates within archaeological science.
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Integration of qualitative and quantitative data into coherent presentations and reports.
- Critically assess scientific data, techniques and your application to the archaeological record.
- Develop advanced skills in data analysis and interpretation.
- Handling, integration and evaluation of data sets of multi-disciplinary origin.
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Critically assess and synthesise data from a combination of qualitative and quantitative sources
- Present the results of both qualitative and quantitative data in a publishable format.
Syllabus
This module will advance your knowledge of molecular approaches within archaeology. The module content includes paleodietary reconstruction using stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes; migration studies using strontium and oxygen isotopes; lipid analysis, and ancient DNA.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching methods include:
- Lectures
- Laboratory Practicals
- Field trips to key archaeological laboratories (e.g. NOCS).
- Seminars
Learning activities include:
- Integrated problem orientated assessment via seminar discussions, laboratory sessions, student presentations and reports.
- Thought exercises – you will be given specific archaeological problems and datasets to consider.
Innovative or special features of this module:
- Integrated industry-based and academic learning environment
- Trips to leading laboratories
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 14 |
| External visits | 4 |
| Practical classes and workshops | 6 |
| Seminar | 6 |
| Completion of assessment task | 62 |
| Follow-up work | 6 |
| Wider reading or practice | 20 |
| Revision | 20 |
| Lecture | 12 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
Brothwell, D.R. and Pollard, A.M. (2001). Handbook of Archaeological Sciences. Chichester: John Wiley.
Brown, T. and K. Brown (2011). Biomolecular archaeology: an introduction (sections 4, 6, 12, and 13). Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.
Marshner, H.D.G. & Chippendale, C. (2005). Handbook of Archaeological Methods Vols 1 and 2. Lanham: Altamira Press.
Assessment
Assessment strategy
Formative
This module has been designed around providing substantial amounts of formative feedback within the classroom environment. This will be delivered via in-class discussion based around case studies.
The summative assessment for this module is split in two. The first part is an assessed presentation designed to assess your ability to present scientific data and use it to evidence arguments.
The second assessment is an essay that takes the form of a scientific journal article using data collected in class practicals. It is designed to assess your ability to synthesize and present scientific data in an archaeological context using an an appropriately scientific format, and to assess your knowledge of the wider field of Molecular Archaeological Science.
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Seminar | 30% |
| Scientific report | 70% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Scientific report | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Scientific report | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External