Archaeology: Basic Field Methods introduces archaeological field methods and provides a basis for understanding the links between the nature of archaeological evidence, the recognition of that evidence in the field, and the techniques involved in the search for and recovery of archaeological evidence in a variety of settings.  Outstanding Features:    Provides a basic introduction to sediments, soils, stratigraphy, and geomorphology.   Discusses ethical concerns and codes of professional conduct.   Discusses cultural resource management (CRM) and its impact on the practice of field archaeology.   Contains exercises and discussion questions at the end of each chapter.   

Table of Contents:
What's the Point?  Chapter 1 Basic Definitions and Assumptions Archaeology Defined Documents and Archaeology Material Evidence Context and Its Importance Archaeological Sites Ethical Concerns Applying Your Knowledge Dig Deeper  Chapter 2 The Archaeological Record and the Recognition of Evidence How the archaeological Record is Formed Recognizing Archaeological Evidence Improving Your Skills Applying Your Knowledge Dig Deeper  Chapter 3 Fieldwork Motivations and Design Why Do Fieldwork? Research Design Applying Your Knowledge Dig Deeper  Chapter 4 Background Research Cultural and Historical Background Environmental Data Land Use History Landowner and Informant Interviews Logistical Matters Applying Your Knowledge Dig Deeper  Chapter 5 Preparing for the FieldField Kits Dressing for the Field Health and Safety Concerns Field Etiquette Applying Your Knowledge Dig Deeper  Chapter 6 Maps, Surveying, and Mapmaking Understanding and Reading Topographic Maps Instruments Measuring Distance Map Scales Locating Areas Documenting Site Locations Systems of Recordation Establishing Grids and Units Creating Plan Maps Determining Elevation and Creating Topographic Maps Drafting Surveying Data Applying Your Knowledge Dig Deeper  Chapter 7 An Introduction to Sediments, Soils, Stratigraphy, and Geomorphology Introduction Fundamentals of Sediment and Soil Defining and Interpreting Stratigraphy Geomorphology Examining and Recording a Profile Impact on Field Strategies Applying Your Knowledge Dig Deeper  Chapter 8 Working On the Surface Discovering Archaeological Deposits Field Notes: What To Record and How What To Collect Remote Sensing Learning More About Surface and Above-Ground Archaeological Resources Integration with Excavation and Subsurface Testing Strategies Applying Your Knowledge Dig Deeper  Chapter 9 Subsurface Investigations The Basics Field Records Conservation of Materials Health, Safety, and General Logistical Concerns Discovering Buried Archaeological Deposits Expanding Your Perspective About Field Records and Data Collection Expanding Your Perspective About Health, Safety, and General Logistical Concerns Further Investigations of Buried Deposits Expanding Your Perspective About Types of Excavations, Excavation Techniques, and Provenience Recording Systems Special Features and Deposits Expanding Your Perspective About Mapping, Data Collection and Processing Expanding Your Perspective About On-Site Logistics Applying Your Knowledge Dig Deeper  Chapter 10 Training and Professional PracticeField Schools and Volunteer Situations Working as a Field Technician Finding a Job Applying Your Knowledge Dig Deeper  Appendix 1 Ethical Principles and Codes of Conduct for Archaeologists   Appendix 2 Summaries of Significant Federal Historic Preservation Legislation   Appendix 3 Listing of State Historic Preservation Offices and Important Federal Agencies for Historic Preservation   Appendix 4 Possible Field Ailments: Symptoms and Treatment   Appendix 5 Examples of Job Descriptions for Archaeological Technicians, Entry/BA Degree Level Staff   Bibliography Index