AR3S12-Science and the Dead: Taphonomy and Molecular Analysis of Human Remains

Module Provider: Archaeology
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Gundula M£ldner
Email: g.h.mueldner@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

Understanding of taphonomy and knowledge of biomolecular methods which are now being routinely applied in burial archaeology are essential for any archaeologist specialising in the study of human remains. This module was designed for students with an interest in the scientific analysis of human remains but with little or no formal background in science. It aims to provide them with an understanding of the key biomolecular methods that are currently employed by modern archaeology to reconstruct the living from the dead.

Aims:

This module aims to provide an understanding of human taphonomy, to introduce the framework of the most widely used methods in the scientific analysis of human remains (isotope, protein, elemental a DNA analysis) and to convey an understanding of the advantages and drawbacks of each approach to non-scientists. 

Assessable learning outcomes:

By completion of this module, the students should be able to:

• Demonstrate understanding of human taphonomy in different environments.


• Explain the principles and methodological framework of key approaches to the chemical analysis of human remains for archaeology


• Demonstrate an awareness of potential problems associated with each method


• Assess the relevance of academic papers published in the field


• Prepare and interpret isotope graphs and produce a scientific report based on their findings.


• Organise and present information as well as develop an argument orally and in writing to different audiences.

Additional outcomes:

This module aims to improve students' analytical and teamworking skills by letting them complete in-class activities in group discussions. The assessments will enhance research skills in particular by requiring the independent use of online databases to locate recent scientific publications. Seminar presentations and participation will give an opportunity to develop presentation and communication skills.

Outline content:

This module will introduce the principles of human taphonomy and introduce key methods in molecular analysis of human remains by discussing classic and recent case-studies. The sessions will cover taphonomy and bone diagenesis, isotope analysis and elemental analysis of bone and teeth, ancient proteomics as well as ancient DNA analysis of human remains for addressing archaeological questions. Emphasis will be on stable isotope data and their interpretation for diet and mobility.

Global context:

Sessions will be illustrated by case-studies from a range of geographical and cultural contexts. Discussions on the ethics of destructive sampling will bring in perspectives from non-Western and indigenous scholars and groups.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

This module is taught in a flipped classroom format. Students will prepare for each session by watching a recorded lecture, using a ‘weekly worksheet’ and directed reading to help them focus on the most relevant points. The weekly seminar sessions will focus on deepening understanding of this material through classroom discussions of the worksheets and data interpretation exercises done in groups.

A series of tutorials will help students prepare for the Isotope Report assignment.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	10
Seminars	20
Tutorials	4
Guided independent study:	166
Total hours by term	200	0	0
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written assignment including essay	40
Report	50
Oral assessment and presentation	10

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

• Isotope Report (50%)


• Essay (40%)


• Presentation (10%)

Formative assessment methods:

Frequent informal feedback will be provided by discussion of the weekly worksheets and interpretation exercises in class.

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
Average of 40% overall

Reassessment arrangements:
Resubmission of coursework on dates set by the department.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 19 April 2023