Explore the roots of Indian Civilization as only an archaeologist can! The rules, tools, techniques and methods of archaeology will be applied to a Rajput-era site from Rajasthan (13th century CE), exploring the world of Hindus and Indo-European culture lost in the mists of time. After each orientation day, students will dig through the morning, searching for clues ,about the origins and meaning of one of the world's least well-known civilizations, (Indus Valley), and its astounding connection to the culture and history of modern India. The Indus Valley, today located in Pakistan, is filled with staggering remains of human activity, as it was like a highway for traders, conquerors, pilgrims and migrating peoples for thousands of years. In fact, it is still causing archaeologists to scratch their heads in confusion and amazement! After digging, in the afternoon, we will play games (Catan, Taj Mahal) and learn stories of mythology, history and geography
intended to deepen the dig experience while giving students critical thinking and information handling skills in the form of long term, short term, working and sensory memory abilities. Think of it as neural archaeology! This subject is bound to awaken your interest in the Indian subcontinent, so don't miss out!
General Information
- Camp will run from 9-12 for half day campers (5-7 year olds) and from 9-4 for the full day. Remember that you should come dressed for the weather, with snack, drink and lunch, and possibly bug spray, so we can get about the demanding business of digging quite a challenging site.
- This camp features one of my best dig sites ever!
- Also, don’t forget our feast and exhibit scheduled for midday on Friday, August, 15th after which diggers should plan on being picked up by 2pm. Friday will feature a potluck feast and exhibit on an India theme.
- *CAMP ENDS AT 2PM ON FRIDAY - All campers are expected to be picked up AT THE LATEST by 2pm*
Instructor's Experience
- Geof Purcell is a professional archaeologist who found his true vocation teaching children.
- He has studied since the mid 1970s in California (BA), Arizona (MA) and New York (unfinished PhD) and has traveled the world and excavated across the USA as well as in Egypt, Mexico, Serbia, Greece and Scotland.
- He had been teaching children as part of his business, The Archaeological Perspective, since the early 90s.