Archaeology Quest

What Is It?

Created by teachers within the Missouri public school system, Archaeology Quest is a state-wide academic competition designed for students in grades 5–12. The purpose of the Quest is for students to involve themselves in archaeological research on a topic related to a selected yearly theme.

It is not necessary for students to collect artifacts, dig, or pursue other archaeological activities which might destroy an archaeological site. After research, students present what they learned in an exhibit, paper, and/or an oral format. Archaeology Quest meets a total of 22 Performance Standards and 19 Show-Me Knowledge Standards for the state of Missouri.

Archaeology Quest is a unique competition because archaeology combines many social sciences. The concept involves the study of historical, anthropological, geographical, and archaeological evidence of past cultures. Archaeology Quest broadens student knowledge of humanity’s existence by combining these social sciences.

Process

Relating to a selected yearly theme, students must discover as much as possible about their chosen topic. Topics for study may be chosen in either the historic or prehistoric category. Students will present their findings at a regional competition.

You may contact program creators and administrators Terre Chambers or Carl Gatlin.