I always start by getting them to reconstruct the present day use of animals
using zooarch techniques - mostly to demonstrate the range of social and
economic uses animals are put to - and tell them that its not all about meat
weights!
So.....
Get them to turn to person next to them and discuss for 5 mins
- What are the ways we interact with animals today? Usual list
food/adverts/religion/witchcraft/leisure/pets/medicene/beastiality (always
be prepared for this one - and mention historical texts on the irish king
making ceremonies - horse shagging and eating said horse in soup) etc.
- Now you tell them what can we tell from animal bones? Age/sex/body part
etc. What other info is available (e.g. arch context and historic docs)
Intro briefly - return to in more detail later. Age/sex models are useful
here...
Their turn again - How could we use our zooarch and arch info to reconstruct
animal use. Again 5mins with a partner.
Then discuss as a class how you could ident food/pets/religion etc. Giving
archaeological example to back up your modern discussion.
This enerally takes about 1 hour or so, and get everyone thinking and
talking about animal usage. I always talk a bit about the garbage project as
well - just to get them thinking about rubbish disposal...
Then they are all ready for the more detailed stuff.
Anyhow - thats how I start.
jacqui
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