Students

AHIS390 – Scientific Archaeology and Ancient Egypt

2017 – S2 Day

General Information

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Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit Convenor
Dr Ronika K. Power
Contact via Email
Level 2, Australian Hearing Hub
By appointment only; contact via email
Credit points Credit points
3
Prerequisites Prerequisites
6cp at 200 level including ((AHIS280 or AHST261) and (AHIS170 or AHIS230 or AHST100 or AHST210)) or admission to GDipArts
Corequisites Corequisites
Co-badged status Co-badged status
Unit description Unit description
This unit examines, at an advanced level, the archaeological evidence from Ancient Egypt, its major sites and the material culture of life and death. In particular it provides an introduction to the methods of archaeological excavation, fieldwork and to a range of modern scientific analyses. A large part of the unit makes use of original Ancient Egyptian artefacts in the Museum of Ancient Cultures for practical study.

Important Academic Dates

Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • Acquire knowledge and skills specific to the discipline of Egyptology
  • Think critically and analytically
  • Solve problems and develop research skills
  • Think creatively and in an innovative way
  • Communicate effectively
  • Digest ambiguous and complex data
  • Commit to continuous learning

General Assessment Information

SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF THE UNIT

There is no final examination for this unit but a class test (closed book).

To complete the unit successfully you need a minimum mark of 50% overall. You must attempt every piece of assessment or university policy requires that a zero grade be given.

You must attend all seminars. Failure to do so will result in a deduction of 2% per lecture from the overall mark for the unit unless a reasonable written explanation for each absence is provided within two days.

All seminars are compulsory. Non-attendance or failure to prepare and participate will result in a deduction of 2% per tutorial from the overall mark for the unit unless a reasonable written explanation for each absence is provided within two days.

 

GRADES:

F: 0-49% P: 50-64% CR: 65-74% D: 75-84% HD: 85-100%

Grade descriptors may be found in a separate document on the unit’s website.

 

RESEARCH ESSAY

The Research Essay (2,500 words) is due in Week 6. It is worth 30% of the total marks.Your answer to the essay question (available on iLearn) should demonstrate extensive use of primary and secondary sources. Your essay should be based on an analysis and discussion of primary (ancient) sources. Secondary literature should be used to aid you in your analysis and interpretation of the ancient sources and to place your interpretation within the context of previous scholarship. All opinions included in the essay, whether quoted directly or paraphrased, should be referenced according to the guidelines, Essay Presentation & Conventions: Style Guide, available online at https://www.mq.edu.au/public/download/?id=292059/. Ensure you download the full version of the Essay Presentation Guide. Don't footnote lectures or include anything in footnotes except citations, and remember to include every reference you have actually used in your bibliography. You must include a word count. Anything beyond the prescribed word limit will not be marked.

Marking criteria:

1. Knowledge of relevant subject matter

2. The range of primary sources used and their analysis

3. The range of secondary works consulted and the depth of engagement with them.

4. Correct citation of sources

5. Structure of argument

6. Skill in presenting the argument

7. Formal presentation including correct referencing, English language grammar, spelling and punctuation

 

TUTORIAL PAPER (OBJECT STUDY)

The assessment is a short paper on an ancient Egyptian artefact. Student will have to draw an artefact from the Museum of Ancient Cultures, to describe and analyse it. Word limit: 2,000 words. It is worth 30% of the total marks.

 

CLASS TEST

The closed-book one-hour class test will test your knowledge of the material offered during the whole unit in both lectures and tutorials. It is worth 30% of the total marks. More detail is available on iLearn.

Marking criteria:

  1. knowledge of and depth of understanding of relevant subject matter
  2. structure of argument
  3. skill in presenting the argument
  4. presentation (including spelling and grammar). Illegible writing will not be marked

Assessment Tasks

Name Weighting Hurdle Due
Research Essay 30% No Week 6
Tutorial Paper 30% No Week 8
Class Test 30% No Week 13
Preparation and Participation 10% No Every week

Research Essay

Due: Week 6
Weighting: 30%

Word limit: 2,500 words.


On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Acquire knowledge and skills specific to the discipline of Egyptology
  • Think critically and analytically
  • Solve problems and develop research skills
  • Communicate effectively
  • Commit to continuous learning

Tutorial Paper

Due: Week 8
Weighting: 30%

Object Study. Word limit: 2,000 words.


On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Acquire knowledge and skills specific to the discipline of Egyptology
  • Solve problems and develop research skills
  • Think creatively and in an innovative way
  • Digest ambiguous and complex data
  • Commit to continuous learning

Class Test

Due: Week 13
Weighting: 30%

The Class Test is a brief examination of all major concepts covered in class. Length is one hour.


On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Acquire knowledge and skills specific to the discipline of Egyptology
  • Think critically and analytically
  • Solve problems and develop research skills
  • Think creatively and in an innovative way
  • Communicate effectively
  • Digest ambiguous and complex data

Preparation and Participation

Due: Every week
Weighting: 10%

Students are required to attend all classes (lectures and tutorials), prepare the set of readings and participate in class.

 


On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Acquire knowledge and skills specific to the discipline of Egyptology
  • Think critically and analytically
  • Solve problems and develop research skills
  • Think creatively and in an innovative way
  • Communicate effectively
  • Digest ambiguous and complex data

Delivery and Resources

CLASSES

For lecture times and classrooms please consult the MQ Timetable website: http://www.timetables.mq.edu.au. This website will display up-to-date information on your classes and classroom locations

To complete the unit satisfactorily you will need to undertake all assessment tasks and achieve an overall mark worth 50% or above.

Assignments must be submitted through the iLearn website. Information about how to submit work online can be accessed through the iLearn unit.

Assignments will be returned via the ‘Assignments’ tool on iLean Unit site, and will contain feedback from the marker within them. The convener will aim to return your assignments within two weeks.

There is no formal examination in this unit. A Class Test is set for the last week of classes.

EXTENSIONS AND PENALTIES

Extensions for assignments can only be granted for medical reasons or on compassionate grounds. Without documentation (medical or counselling certificates) or prior staff approval, a penalty of 2% a day, including weekends, will be applied. If required, applications for extensions should be made to the convenor before the assignment's due date.

REQUIRED AND RECOMMENDED TEXTS AND/OR MATERIALS

The following textbooks are required:

  • Renfrew, C. and Bahn, P., Archaeology: Theories, Methods and Practice (London, 2016).

Recommended texts:

  • Bahn, P., Archaeology: A Very Short Introduction (Oxford, New York, 2000).
  • Parker Pearson, M., The Archaeology of Death and Burial (Stroud., 2006)
  • Shaw, I. (ed.), The Oxford History of Ancient Egypt (Oxford, 2003).

For a detailed bibliography refer to the syllabus.

Required Equipment for the two practical classes

Supplies can be obtained from Eckersleys or Dymocks on George Street / Woollies

  • clutch pencils (2H-4H leads).
  • soft eraser (emphasis on soft).
  • A4 size grid paper (1mm).
  • A4 size tracing paper (90 gr.).
  • plain grid paper for practicing sketching.
  • sticky tape.
  • 30 cm ruler.
  • set square (check where the zero point is to ensure that there is no problem for measuring).
  • 1 A4 size folder to hold drawings and related matters.
  • 1 Vernier caliper (plastic, but but if you already have metal, that is also OK).
  • magnifying lens (10X)
  • (1 pair of cotton gloves)

DELIVERY AND RESOURCES

This unit has an online presence. Login is via: https://ilearn.mq.edu.au

Students are required to have regular access to a computer and the internet. Mobile devices alone are not sufficient.

- For technical support go to: http://mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/informatics/help

- For student quick guides on the use of iLearn go to: http://mq.edu.au/iLearn/student_info/guides.htm

Unit Schedule

 

Week

Date

Lecture

Tutorial

Assessment

1

02/08/2017

Introduction

NO TUTORIAL

N/A

2

09/08/2017

History of Egyptian Archaeology

Tutorial 1

N/A

3

16/08/2017

Dating Sites and Artefacts

Tutorial 2

N/A

4

23/08/2017

Field Archaeology in Egypt

Tutorial 3

N/A

5

30/08/2017

Pottery 

Tutorial 4

N/A

6

06/09/2017

Practical work I

Tutorial 5

Research Essay Due 30%

7

13/09/2017

Practical work II

Tutorial 6

N/A

   

MID-SEMESTER BREAK

   

8

04/10/2017

Metal, Faience and Glass 

Tutorial 7

Tutorial Paper Due

(Object Study) 30%

9

11/10/2017

Stone, Wood, Bone and Ivory 

Tutorial 8

N/A

10

18/10/2017

Archaeometry and Material Analysis 

Tutorial 9

N/A

11

25/10/2017

Funerary Archaeology

Tutorial 10

 N/A

12

01/11/2017

Settlement Archaeology

Tutorial 11

N/A

13

10/11/2017

NO LECTURE

NO TUTORIAL

Class Test 30%

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central. Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:

Academic Honesty Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/academic_honesty/policy.html

Assessment Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/assessment/policy_2016.html

Grade Appeal Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/gradeappeal/policy.html

Complaint Management Procedure for Students and Members of the Public http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/complaint_management/procedure.html​

Disruption to Studies Policy (in effect until Dec 4th, 2017): http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/disruption_studies/policy.html

Special Consideration Policy (in effect from Dec 4th, 2017): https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policies/special-consideration

In addition, a number of other policies can be found in the Learning and Teaching Category of Policy Central.

Student Code of Conduct

Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/support/student_conduct/

Results

Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au.

Student Support

Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/

Learning Skills

Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to improve your marks and take control of your study.

Student Services and Support

Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.

Student Enquiries

For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au

IT Help

For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/

When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.

Graduate Capabilities

Creative and Innovative

Our graduates will also be capable of creative thinking and of creating knowledge. They will be imaginative and open to experience and capable of innovation at work and in the community. We want them to be engaged in applying their critical, creative thinking.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Acquire knowledge and skills specific to the discipline of Egyptology
  • Think creatively and in an innovative way
  • Digest ambiguous and complex data

Assessment tasks

  • Research Essay
  • Tutorial Paper
  • Class Test
  • Preparation and Participation

Capable of Professional and Personal Judgement and Initiative

We want our graduates to have emotional intelligence and sound interpersonal skills and to demonstrate discernment and common sense in their professional and personal judgement. They will exercise initiative as needed. They will be capable of risk assessment, and be able to handle ambiguity and complexity, enabling them to be adaptable in diverse and changing environments.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Think critically and analytically
  • Solve problems and develop research skills
  • Think creatively and in an innovative way
  • Digest ambiguous and complex data

Commitment to Continuous Learning

Our graduates will have enquiring minds and a literate curiosity which will lead them to pursue knowledge for its own sake. They will continue to pursue learning in their careers and as they participate in the world. They will be capable of reflecting on their experiences and relationships with others and the environment, learning from them, and growing - personally, professionally and socially.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Digest ambiguous and complex data
  • Commit to continuous learning

Discipline Specific Knowledge and Skills

Our graduates will take with them the intellectual development, depth and breadth of knowledge, scholarly understanding, and specific subject content in their chosen fields to make them competent and confident in their subject or profession. They will be able to demonstrate, where relevant, professional technical competence and meet professional standards. They will be able to articulate the structure of knowledge of their discipline, be able to adapt discipline-specific knowledge to novel situations, and be able to contribute from their discipline to inter-disciplinary solutions to problems.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Acquire knowledge and skills specific to the discipline of Egyptology
  • Digest ambiguous and complex data

Assessment tasks

  • Research Essay
  • Tutorial Paper
  • Class Test
  • Preparation and Participation

Critical, Analytical and Integrative Thinking

We want our graduates to be capable of reasoning, questioning and analysing, and to integrate and synthesise learning and knowledge from a range of sources and environments; to be able to critique constraints, assumptions and limitations; to be able to think independently and systemically in relation to scholarly activity, in the workplace, and in the world. We want them to have a level of scientific and information technology literacy.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Acquire knowledge and skills specific to the discipline of Egyptology
  • Think critically and analytically
  • Solve problems and develop research skills
  • Think creatively and in an innovative way
  • Digest ambiguous and complex data

Assessment tasks

  • Research Essay
  • Tutorial Paper
  • Class Test
  • Preparation and Participation

Problem Solving and Research Capability

Our graduates should be capable of researching; of analysing, and interpreting and assessing data and information in various forms; of drawing connections across fields of knowledge; and they should be able to relate their knowledge to complex situations at work or in the world, in order to diagnose and solve problems. We want them to have the confidence to take the initiative in doing so, within an awareness of their own limitations.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Acquire knowledge and skills specific to the discipline of Egyptology
  • Solve problems and develop research skills

Assessment tasks

  • Research Essay
  • Tutorial Paper
  • Class Test
  • Preparation and Participation

Effective Communication

We want to develop in our students the ability to communicate and convey their views in forms effective with different audiences. We want our graduates to take with them the capability to read, listen, question, gather and evaluate information resources in a variety of formats, assess, write clearly, speak effectively, and to use visual communication and communication technologies as appropriate.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Think critically and analytically
  • Communicate effectively

Assessment tasks

  • Research Essay
  • Tutorial Paper
  • Class Test
  • Preparation and Participation

Engaged and Ethical Local and Global citizens

As local citizens our graduates will be aware of indigenous perspectives and of the nation's historical context. They will be engaged with the challenges of contemporary society and with knowledge and ideas. We want our graduates to have respect for diversity, to be open-minded, sensitive to others and inclusive, and to be open to other cultures and perspectives: they should have a level of cultural literacy. Our graduates should be aware of disadvantage and social justice, and be willing to participate to help create a wiser and better society.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcome

  • Think critically and analytically

Assessment tasks

  • Class Test
  • Preparation and Participation

Socially and Environmentally Active and Responsible

We want our graduates to be aware of and have respect for self and others; to be able to work with others as a leader and a team player; to have a sense of connectedness with others and country; and to have a sense of mutual obligation. Our graduates should be informed and active participants in moving society towards sustainability.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Think critically and analytically
  • Digest ambiguous and complex data

Assessment tasks

  • Research Essay
  • Tutorial Paper
  • Class Test
  • Preparation and Participation