Introduction to Archaeology

This section is designed to give educators and students a solid foundation in the field of archaeology—what it is, how it’s practiced, and why it matters. Whether you’re incorporating archaeology into your curriculum or exploring it out of curiosity, this is a great place to start.


Resource includes:

  • Archaeology 101 – A beginner-friendly overview covering the basics of archaeological methods, terminology, and principles
  • A Career in Archaeology – A personal and professional look at the field by Professor Andrea Berlin
  • A Glossary of Archaeological Terms to support learning and classroom discussion
  • A list of Bibliographies of Recommended Archaeology Books for deeper study

Whether you’re building a new lesson plan or simply curious about the discipline, this section is a great starting point for understanding the practice and purpose of archaeology.

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The AIA is North America's largest and oldest nonprofit organization dedicated to archaeology. The Institute advances awareness, education, fieldwork, preservation, publication, and research of archaeological sites and cultural heritage throughout the world. Your contribution makes a difference.