St Mary’s Field Museum: Artefacts of Archaeology 

Overview: 

Before we build bridges, tunnels, tracks and stations, the largest archaeology programme ever undertaken in the UK is taking place along the line of route. This lesson plan is part of a collection of resources created by Fusion JV, an HS2 supplier who has been carrying out our archaeological work in Buckinghamshire. 

Students can discover the archaeology and history of Stoke Mandeville in Buckinghamshire through resource packs which include print-out worksheets and exercises to encourage engagement with historic materials in the subjects of art, design technology, geography, English, science and history. These downloadable interactive `Dig-ital’ packs offer creative 40 minute workshops that encourage critical thinking and the application of scientific thought to the analysis of historic materials.  

The ’ Artefacts of Archaeology’ lesson looks at how archaeological materials are found, recorded and dated. Students will match labels to images of pottery found in the ruins of St Mary’s church, create artefact illustrations and use the Portable Antiquities Scheme website to carry out research.  

Learning Objectives: 

• To address how materials are archaeologically investigated. 
• To ask questions about the archaeological process.
• To evaluate materials in order to suggest their original use or shape. 
• Learn the basis of finds recording and illustration. 

Delivery notes: 

This lesson will take about 40 minutes to complete. 

Students will need print outs, pencils, pens (preferably fine-line) rulers, calculator, tracing paper, internet access for research.