INTERPRETING MULTIPLE HISTORIES OF A LITHIC ARTIFACT: INTRODUCING UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS TO RESEARCH USING THE SEM

As co-instructors of an undergraduate course in Archaeological Geology, we have developed an interpretive exercise using the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). This exercise requires preliminary background or instruction in basic principles of percussion and pressure flaking, geological materials suited for chipped stone tool manufacture, use-wear on chipped stone tools, contextual analysis and post-depositional processes, particularly natural wear due to wind and water abrasion. After hands-on discussion of chipped stone tool manufacture and suitability of geologic materials, we explained and demonstrated the research potential of the SEM in the Department of Entomology at Kansas State University. Using the secondary electron detector, students acquired images of four surface or edge locations of an artifact recovered from an archaeological site in north-central Kansas. EDS semi-quantitative analysis and macroscopic observations demonstrated to the students that the object was made of chert. We asked students to write a description of the analytical techniques, the data and then formulate an interpretive history of this artifact. Most concluded that after the initial flaking, use, and discard, the object was subjected to extensive weathering that all but obliterated the original flake scars. At a later point, the discarded object was picked up and retouched twice along one edge for use as a cutting implement. Although most students were able to recognize that the artifact had multiple stages of use, additional comparative images of water and wind-worn cherts would give students greater confidence in their ability to interpret the history of tools affected by natural processes after the tool had been discarded (post-depositional processes). Students expressed enthusiasm about the project and indicated a high level of engagement on evaluations (average score=4.3 on a scale of 1 [low] to 5 [high]).