Excavations

Question 1

what are the 2 types of excavations?

Answer 1

grid system and open area excava.

Question 2

Grid system?

Answer 2

studies vertical dimension of site by revealing time sequence in each stratum
divided into grid/squares/boxes, each numbered to give coordinates
each separated by baulks or walls

Question 3

Why are grid systems less used?

Answer 3

believed to be rigid and restrictive

Question 4

Open area excavation?

Answer 4

horizontal dimension of site by uncovering whole site layer by layer.
each stratum not exposed until one above completely examined and recorded.

Question 5

Benefits of open area?

Answer 5

• whole time period (strata) revealed where relationship with each artefact can be understood.
• more stable (structurally safer) and wont miss anything by baulks
• gradual and precise method

Question 6

What are baulks in grid system?

Answer 6

areas no excavated
support/stabilise each square
maintains strata
helps access to excavated area

Question 7

What must you do before taking anything out of in situ?

Answer 7

record exact location to find out purpose

Question 8

Why is provenance important?

Answer 8

where and when artefact found/ place of origin
important to keep track of artefact and gain deeper understanding and background

valuable info about find spot and context of artefact enable provenance to be established