Student Incursions (also available online)
Introduction to Archaeology (Years 3-12)
What is archaeology? And what do archaeologists do? Do they really spend all their time travelling to remote jungles to discover lost civilisations, or is there more to it than that? Have a close look at some real archaeological artefacts, including bottles, stone tools, and some replica, but very lifelike, skulls.
Find out what archaeologists really do (we don’t often get to explore the jungle!) and see the real tools of the trade. Take a guided tour through some major areas of archaeological investigation, from the evolution of human ancestors to the ice age and right up to more recent historical times. At the end, ask those burning archaeology questions about what life might have been like 100 or 100,000 years ago.
This hands-on workshop can be tailored to suit a variety of age groups and focus topics. It will give students the opportunity to learn more about archaeology through discussion, inquiry and practical activities.
Unearthing Ancient Australia (Years 7-12)
This is a specialised workshop for students studying Ancient Australia. Using an inquiry learning approach, students will explore the material culture of Aboriginal Australia through the lens of archaeology.
We start with an introduction to archaeology, including the tools of the trade, then investigate key Ancient Australian archaeological sites and discuss why they are significant and what they can tell us about the past. Students will get to examine examples of stone tool technology and learn how to recognise a stone tool from an ordinary rock.
This hands-on workshop will give students the opportunity to learn more about Ancient Australia through discussion, inquiry and practical activities, and will address key historical skills and concepts for the ‘Ancient World’ unit at Year 7 and the Year 11 and 12 Ancient History ‘Ancient World’ and ‘Archaeology’ units.
Teacher Professional Development (also available online)
Understanding Ancient Australia
This is a comprehensive PD seminar tailored specifically for primary and secondary humanities teachers. It uses Australian archaeology to address key concepts and critical inquiry questions for the Year 4 ‘First Contacts’ and Year 7 ‘Ancient Australia’ units, as well as the Year 11 and 12 Ancient History ‘Ancient World’ and ‘Archaeology’ units.
This seminar covers:
- Clarification of important historical and archaeological terms of reference
- Definition of Ancient Australia
- Examination of critical points in the Ancient Australia timeline
- Discussion of significant ancient Indigenous archaeological sites
- Ideas on how to approach the topic Ancient Australia in the classroom
The seminar will also answer important questions, such as:
- What is Ancient Australia?
- Why did people come to Australia?
- When and where did they arrive?
- How has the continent changed over time?
- What effect did fluctuating sea levels and climate changes have on Australia’s first inhabitants?
- How does archaeology help us understand the history of Ancient Australia?
Prices
Student incursions* (45 minutes) $180 per class
Teacher PD* (90 minutes) $410
Student online sessions (30 minutes) $100 per class
Teacher PD online sessions (60 minutes) $310
*Additional travel costs may apply.
For bookings and inquiries, please email archaeology@ancientaustralia.com.au