6: Locating a Site

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Learning Objectives

Explain the six stages of archaeological research.
Describe the elements of a research design.
Describe the three general approaches used by archaeologists to identify sites.
Compare and contrast the techniques used for reconnaissance.
Characterize the various types of evidence of archaeological sites that can be detected through remote sensing..

6.1: Archaeological Research
You may think that archaeologists just walk into the field and begin digging up amazing artifacts. Actually, many hours have been spent preparing for that moment when the archaeologists pick up their shovels. Extensive planning is required before excavation or even a survey can begin.
6.2: Finding Archaeological Sites
Once the core research question has been proposed and the project parameters have been designed, the next task is to locate the specific study site. Of course, not all archaeological data and sites are “lost.” Many are well known, such as the Great Wall of China and the Pyramids in Egypt. But how are sites located when they have been “lost” to time?
6.3: Chapter Six Review
Review important concepts and definitions of key terms.

Image: Under the Direction of Paul Frish, Skilled Navajo Workmen Perform Delicate Archaeological Operations. The Dig Is a Project of the Museum of Northern Arizona. (1973). By U.S. National Archives under Public Domain via flickr.