Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2025 - ARCH 271 D100

Interpreting the Past: An Introduction to Archaeological Theory (3)

Class Number: 4677

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 7, 2025
    Sun, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    ARCH 101 or ARCH 201.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Examines how archaeologists develop explanations of human behaviour, cultural development, and cultural evolution. Reviews the historical development of social and biological theory applied in archaeology and examines how these various theoretical perspectives have shaped interpretations of the past.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course examines how archaeologists develop explanations of human cultural development and cultural evolution, through analysis of material remains of human societies. The course
reviews the historical development of social and biological theory applied in archaeology and examines how various theoretical perspectives have shaped competing or complementary
interpretations of specific archaeological finds and cultural phenomena.

Grading

  • Assignment 1 20%
  • Assignment 2 30%
  • Midterm Exam 20%
  • Final Exam 30%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Arch 271 lecture slides, readings, some videos, and other course information can be found through the SFU CANVAS system. Each week’s course material will be presented as a Module,
with lecture notes, readings, assignment details, and links to other media.

It is your responsibility to be familiar with SFU’s academic dishonesty policies http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student.html. Plagiarism and other forms of academic
dishonesty will not be tolerated in this course. Use of writing tutors or artificial intelligence writing software, such as ChatGPT, is prohibited. Academic penalties for violating this code of conduct range from automatic failure on an assignment to expulsion from SFU.

REQUIRED READING:

Readings and other course resources will be available online through CANVAS or
through the SFU Library.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as soon as possible to ensure that they are eligible and that approved accommodations and services are implemented in a timely fashion.

Deferred grades will be given only on the basis of authenticated medical disability.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.