Archaeology
GCE Advanced Level AS/A2
Course Content
AS Archaeology introduces students to some of the key themes in world archaeology. The course focuses on the archaeology of religion and ritual looking at Ancient Egypt from 3,000BC to 50BC. Areas covered include belief systems, mortuary practices and ritual locations. There is also an emphasis on the work of archaeologists which includes study of archaeological excavation, recording techniques and post excavation dating and site interpretation.
In the A2 year the study of World Archaeology will focus on Prehistoric Britain and Ancient Egypt, and debate will centre on Contemporary Issues. Students will be considering:
- People and Society in the Past
- Sites and People in the Landscape
- Material Culture
There will also be a coursework element in the second year consisting of an archaeological investigation. This personal study will be between 3500 – 4000 words and will be based on fieldwork and personal research.
How it is Taught
Archaeology is taught in a variety of ways at QE. Activities include:
- Class debates
- Studying sources / artefacts
- Videos and DVDs
- Use of ICT
- Essay writing & note taking
- Reading and research
- Educational visits
Examination Details
Assessment at AS is by source based questions and short essay questions. Two exams are taken in the AS year, one in January and the other in the Summer Term. In the second year there is one essay based examination and one coursework unit comprising of an individual study of 3500 – 4000 words.
Entry Requirements
A student should meet the general college entry requirements for advanced level study. Please refer to the current Prospectus - advanced programmes, entry requirements. GCSE Grade C or above in English Language and a C or above in Science and / or Maths is preferred for students taking advanced level Archaeology.
Please note: you can still do advanced level Archaeology at the college even if you have not done GCSE Archaeology or GCSE History. You can also take Archaeology alongside History courses at College.
Useful/Common Subject Combinations
Archaeology combines well with a number of other subjects and is well regarded both by universities and employers as a qualification for a wide range of courses in History, Politics, Economics, English, Languages, Art History, Law, Archaeology, Philosophy, Sociology, Theology, Anthropology and Classical Studies.
Careers and HE Information
Archaeology students go on to a wide range of careers, from areas of obvious relevance like heritage work, teaching or research, to fields like journalism, law, accountancy and management, the civil service etc.
Other Relevant Information
Students thinking of studying Archaeology should have:
- An enquiring mind and be a good "all round" student (Archaeology combines elements of other subjects such as Science, Art, Technology, Geography, Sociology, History, and Religious Studies)
- An interest in the Ancient World
- An interest in research and reading
- An ability to write clearly and logically
- An ability to recall information
- A willingness to voice opinions and exercise judgement
For more information about the Archaeology course at Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College
- See the College Prospectus
- Come to Open Evenings
- Contact Gill Laws (Head of Subject) at the College