Lesson

Archaeo-Tech: Telling Time with Stone Tools

Lesson Overview

This lesson plan explores how archaeologists study and classify projectile points (commonly referred to as arrowheads) into different “types” to learn about past people and cultures. After learning how archaeologists describe and define point types, students will examine 2D images or 3D models of various projectile points from different South Carolina time periods. Students will learn how projectile points are an important part of the archaeological record and understand the diversity of traditions around point making that existed in South Carolina prior to the arrival of Europeans.

Duration
1-2 hours
Lesson Type
Traditional Lesson

Series:

Essential Question

How do archaeologists classify projectile points to reveal the diversity of past human traditions, and what stories do these artifacts tell us about the cultures that created them?

Lesson Created By: MegGaillard

Lesson Partners: South Carolina Department of Natural Resources