Students
AHIS291 – Archaeology of Death and Burial
2018 – S1 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
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| Credit points |
Credit points
3
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| Prerequisites |
Prerequisites
12cp at 100 level or above
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| Corequisites |
Corequisites
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| Co-badged status |
Co-badged status
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| Unit description |
Unit description
Cemeteries are arguably the most ubiquitous site-types in the archaeological record, providing the greatest portion of artefacts, ecofacts, features, texts and artistic representations from which archaeologists and historians have based their reconstructions of the past. Notwithstanding these facts, cemeteries are also arguably the most challenging site-type to interpret due to the profound complexity and variability of mortuary behaviour – both within and across cultures. This unit embraces ‘complexity’ and ‘variability’ as opportunities to consider how different societies and cultures dealt with the biological imperative of death. By encompassing the fields of archaeology, history, theory, biology, social and cultural studies, politics, and economics, this interdisciplinary unit will invite students to consider the enduring tendency of death to provide individuals and groups with a stage to articulate the complexity, variability and meaning of life.
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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 pertaining to the archaeology of death and burial across time, geographical regions and cultures
- Demonstrate critical thinking in the interpretation of the archaeological data
- Solve problems and develop research skills
- Think creatively and in an innovative way
- Communicate effectively in both written and spoken modalities
- Digest ambiguous, complex and contrasting data
- Reflect on how knowledge gained in the unit can be applied in modern (ethnographic) contexts
- 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 lectures and tutorials. Failure to do so will result in a deduction of 2% per lecture/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.
LATE SUBMISSION OF ASSESSMENT TASKS - PENALTY
Unless a Special Consideration request has been submitted and approved, (a) a penalty for lateness will apply – two (2) marks out of 100 will be deducted per day for assignments submitted after the due date – and (b) no assignment will be accepted more than seven (7) days (including weekends) after the original submission deadline. No late submissions will be accepted for timed assessments – e.g. quizzes, online tests.
RESEARCH ESSAY
The Research Essay (2,000 words) is due in Week 7. 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, within the Macquarie University Ancient History Department Assignment Presentation: Style Guide. Do not 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
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.
Marking criteria:
- knowledge of and depth of understanding of relevant subject matter
- structure of argument
- skill in presenting the argument
- presentation (including spelling and grammar). Illegible writing will not be marked
IMPORTANT NOTE ON FINAL MARKS
Please note with respect to the marks you receive for work during the session: that the marks given are indicative only; final marks will be determined after moderation. See further the note on Results in the Policies and Procedures section below.
Assessment Tasks
| Name | Weighting | Hurdle | Due |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online Quiz 1 | 15% | No | Week 5 (30/03/18) |
| Research Essay | 30% | No | Week 7 (13/04/18) |
| Online Quiz 2 | 15% | No | Week 10 (18/05/18) |
| Class Test | 30% | No | Week 13 (05/06/18) |
| Preparation and Participation | 10% | No | Every week |
Online Quiz 1
Due: Week 5 (30/03/18)
Weighting: 15%
Answer 10 short questions based on the lecture content and tutorial readings and discussions
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Acquire knowledge and skills pertaining to the archaeology of death and burial across time, geographical regions and cultures
- Solve problems and develop research skills
- Digest ambiguous, complex and contrasting data
- Commit to continuous learning
Research Essay
Due: Week 7 (13/04/18)
Weighting: 30%
Word limit: 2,000 words.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Acquire knowledge and skills pertaining to the archaeology of death and burial across time, geographical regions and cultures
- Demonstrate critical thinking in the interpretation of the archaeological data
- Solve problems and develop research skills
- Think creatively and in an innovative way
- Communicate effectively in both written and spoken modalities
- Digest ambiguous, complex and contrasting data
- Commit to continuous learning
Online Quiz 2
Due: Week 10 (18/05/18)
Weighting: 15%
Answer 10 short questions based on the lecture content and tutorial readings and discussions
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Acquire knowledge and skills pertaining to the archaeology of death and burial across time, geographical regions and cultures
- Solve problems and develop research skills
- Digest ambiguous, complex and contrasting data
- Commit to continuous learning
Class Test
Due: Week 13 (05/06/18)
Weighting: 30%
The Class Test is a brief examination of all major concepts covered in the unit. Length is one hour.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Acquire knowledge and skills pertaining to the archaeology of death and burial across time, geographical regions and cultures
- Demonstrate critical thinking in the interpretation of the archaeological data
- Solve problems and develop research skills
- Communicate effectively in both written and spoken modalities
- Digest ambiguous, complex and contrasting data
- Reflect on how knowledge gained in the unit can be applied in modern (ethnographic) contexts
- Commit to continuous learning
Preparation and Participation
Due: Every week
Weighting: 10%
Students are required to attend all classes (lectures and tutorials), prepare the required readings and participate in class.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Acquire knowledge and skills pertaining to the archaeology of death and burial across time, geographical regions and cultures
- Demonstrate critical thinking in the interpretation of the archaeological data
- Think creatively and in an innovative way
- Communicate effectively in both written and spoken modalities
- Digest ambiguous, complex and contrasting data
- Reflect on how knowledge gained in the unit can be applied in modern (ethnographic) contexts
- Commit to continuous learning
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. If required, applications for extensions should be made to the convenor well before the assignment's due date.
Unless a Special Consideration request has been submitted and approved, (a) a penalty for lateness will apply – two (2) marks out of 100 will be deducted per day for assignments submitted after the due date – and (b) no assignment will be accepted more than seven (7) days (including weekends) after the original submission deadline. No late submissions will be accepted for timed assessments – e.g. quizzes, online tests.
REQUIRED AND RECOMMENDED TEXTS AND/OR MATERIALS
The following textbooks are required:
- Mike Parker Pearson, The Archaeology of Death and Burial (Stroud, 2013).
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 |
Topic |
Lecturer |
Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 27.02.18 | Introduction | Dr Ronika K. Power | - |
| 2 | 06.03.18 | Palaeolithic/Mesolithic/Neolithic Funerary Behaviour | Dr Ronika K. Power | - |
| 3 | 13.03.18 | Ancient Egyptian Funerary Behaviour | Dr Ronika K. Power | - |
| 4 | 20.03.18 | Dearly Departed: Exploring the Family and the Funerary in Israel and the Ancient Near East | Dr Louise Pryke | - |
| 5 | 27.03.18 | Ancestor Worship and Hero Cult: The Dead in the Landscape of the Living: Minoans and Mycenaeans | Dr Susan Lupack | Online Quiz (15%) |
| 6 | 03.04.18 | Gladiatorial Death and Burial in Ancient Rome | A/Prof. Peter Keegan | - |
| 7 | 10.04.18 | Imperial Mausolea and the Relic Cult of the Saints in Byzantium | Dr Meaghan McEvoy | Research Essay (30%) |
| - | - | RECESS | - | - |
| 8 | 01.05.18 | Massacres, Murder and Human Sacrifice | Dr Ronika K. Power | - |
| 9 | 08.05.18 | The Undead: Zombies, Vampires and Cannibals | Dr Ronika K. Power | - |
| 10 | 15.05.18 | Interpreting the Inclusion of Animals in Mortuary Practices | Dr Mary Hartley | Online Quiz (15%) |
| 11 | 22.05.18 | Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Death, Burial and Repatriation | Matt Poll | - |
| 12 | 29.05.18 | Ethnography of Dying, Death and Burial | Amy Sagar | - |
| 13 | 05.06.18 | CLASS TEST | - | Class Test (30%) |
Policies and Procedures
Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policy-central). Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:
- Academic Appeals Policy
- Academic Integrity Policy
- Academic Progression Policy
- Assessment Policy
- Fitness to Practice Procedure
- Grade Appeal Policy
- Complaint Management Procedure for Students and Members of the Public
- Special Consideration Policy (Note: The Special Consideration Policy is effective from 4 December 2017 and replaces the Disruption to Studies Policy.)
Undergraduate students seeking more policy resources can visit the Student Policy Gateway (https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/student-policy-gateway). It is your one-stop-shop for the key policies you need to know about throughout your undergraduate student journey.
If you would like to see all the policies relevant to Learning and Teaching visit Policy Central (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/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/study/getting-started/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 pertaining to the archaeology of death and burial across time, geographical regions and cultures
- Demonstrate critical thinking in the interpretation of the archaeological data
- Solve problems and develop research skills
- Think creatively and in an innovative way
- Communicate effectively in both written and spoken modalities
- Digest ambiguous, complex and contrasting data
- Reflect on how knowledge gained in the unit can be applied in modern (ethnographic) contexts
- Commit to continuous learning
Assessment tasks
- Online Quiz 1
- Research Essay
- Online Quiz 2
- 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
- Demonstrate critical thinking in the interpretation of the archaeological data
- Think creatively and in an innovative way
- Communicate effectively in both written and spoken modalities
- Digest ambiguous, complex and contrasting data
- Reflect on how knowledge gained in the unit can be applied in modern (ethnographic) contexts
- Commit to continuous learning
Assessment tasks
- Online Quiz 1
- Research Essay
- Online Quiz 2
- Class Test
- Preparation and Participation
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
- Acquire knowledge and skills pertaining to the archaeology of death and burial across time, geographical regions and cultures
- Solve problems and develop research skills
- Communicate effectively in both written and spoken modalities
- Reflect on how knowledge gained in the unit can be applied in modern (ethnographic) contexts
- Commit to continuous learning
Assessment tasks
- Online Quiz 1
- Research Essay
- Online Quiz 2
- Class Test
- Preparation and Participation
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 pertaining to the archaeology of death and burial across time, geographical regions and cultures
- Demonstrate critical thinking in the interpretation of the archaeological data
- Solve problems and develop research skills
- Communicate effectively in both written and spoken modalities
- Digest ambiguous, complex and contrasting data
- Reflect on how knowledge gained in the unit can be applied in modern (ethnographic) contexts
Assessment tasks
- Online Quiz 1
- Research Essay
- Online Quiz 2
- 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 pertaining to the archaeology of death and burial across time, geographical regions and cultures
- Demonstrate critical thinking in the interpretation of the archaeological data
- Solve problems and develop research skills
- Think creatively and in an innovative way
- Communicate effectively in both written and spoken modalities
- Digest ambiguous, complex and contrasting data
- Reflect on how knowledge gained in the unit can be applied in modern (ethnographic) contexts
- Commit to continuous learning
Assessment tasks
- Online Quiz 1
- Research Essay
- Online Quiz 2
- 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 pertaining to the archaeology of death and burial across time, geographical regions and cultures
- Demonstrate critical thinking in the interpretation of the archaeological data
- Solve problems and develop research skills
- Think creatively and in an innovative way
- Communicate effectively in both written and spoken modalities
- Digest ambiguous, complex and contrasting data
- Reflect on how knowledge gained in the unit can be applied in modern (ethnographic) contexts
- Commit to continuous learning
Assessment tasks
- Online Quiz 1
- Research Essay
- Online Quiz 2
- 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
- Acquire knowledge and skills pertaining to the archaeology of death and burial across time, geographical regions and cultures
- Demonstrate critical thinking in the interpretation of the archaeological data
- Solve problems and develop research skills
- Think creatively and in an innovative way
- Communicate effectively in both written and spoken modalities
- Digest ambiguous, complex and contrasting data
- Reflect on how knowledge gained in the unit can be applied in modern (ethnographic) contexts
- Commit to continuous learning
Assessment tasks
- Online Quiz 1
- Research Essay
- Online Quiz 2
- 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 outcomes
- Acquire knowledge and skills pertaining to the archaeology of death and burial across time, geographical regions and cultures
- Demonstrate critical thinking in the interpretation of the archaeological data
- Think creatively and in an innovative way
- Digest ambiguous, complex and contrasting data
- Reflect on how knowledge gained in the unit can be applied in modern (ethnographic) contexts
- Commit to continuous learning
Assessment tasks
- Online Quiz 1
- Research Essay
- Online Quiz 2
- 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
- Acquire knowledge and skills pertaining to the archaeology of death and burial across time, geographical regions and cultures
- Demonstrate critical thinking in the interpretation of the archaeological data
- Think creatively and in an innovative way
- Digest ambiguous, complex and contrasting data
- Reflect on how knowledge gained in the unit can be applied in modern (ethnographic) contexts
- Commit to continuous learning
Assessment tasks
- Online Quiz 1
- Research Essay
- Online Quiz 2
- Class Test
- Preparation and Participation
Changes since First Published
| Date | Description |
|---|---|
| 24/02/2018 | Unit schedule added. |