Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - ARCH 282 D100

Material Culture Analysis (4)

Class Number: 4479

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Mon, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    ARCH 101 or ARCH 201.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Analysis and interpretation of archaeological material culture. This lecture and laboratory course combines the practical problems of recognition and interpretation of archaeological specimens, typology, seriation, and statistical procedures with the basic principles of archaeological theory. Students who have completed ARCH 372 cannot take ARCH 282 for additional credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course will provide students with an introduction to the identification, analysis, and interpretation of major types of cultural materials commonly recovered from archaeological sites. Emphasis will be placed on developing practical skills and knowledge related to understanding the types of information archaeologists can infer from material remains, conducting analyses, and reporting results of archaeological investigations. The course will provide an overview of a broad range of cultural materials including: stone tools, ceramics, faunal remains and bone tools, plant wood and fibre materials, architecture, and art. In addition, students will be introduced to basic method and theory with respect to: classification, typology, and experimental archaeology.

The course has a significant laboratory component during which students will obtain hands-on experience with artifacts and other archaeological materials. During labs students will complete practical assignments where they learn to analyze and interpret material culture, along with reporting results. Quizzes and a final exam will assess students’ mastery of the lab methods and identification of materials, as well as students’ ability to contextualize them with case studies examined in the course.

Grading

  • Lab Assignments and Participation 50%
  • Lab Assignments and Participation 20%
  • Final Exam 30%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

There is no required textbook for this course. Readings will be made available online through CANVAS or 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.