Million Whys Press logo
Million Whys PressToronto
← Book 24 videos

Book 24, Question 129 · Video

How do archaeologists map a dig site?

Video · 1:55 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 24

Before digging, archaeologists mark off the site in a grid of squares using string and stakes. They dig each square a little at a time, record the depth, and take photos and notes of everything they find. Soil is sifted through screens to catch tiny pieces. Knowing exactly where each object was found helps them figure out its story.

Read the full answer →

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. How do archaeologists map a dig site?

The Big Idea

Archaeologists do not just start digging anywhere. They make a careful map first! Every find gets its exact spot.

The Grid

Step one: The Grid. Before digging, archaeologists mark off the site in a grid of squares using string and stakes. Each square gets a name.

Digging Slowly

Step two: Digging Slowly. They dig each square a little at a time and record the depth. They take photos and notes of everything they find.

Sifting

Step three: Sifting. Soil is sifted through screens to catch tiny pieces. Knowing exactly where each object was found helps them figure out its story.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! A string grid marks squares. Depth is measured. Photos record each find. Screens catch tiny pieces.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Some teams now make 3D computer models of their trenches. Archaeologists use small brushes to clean finds gently. Careful notes are as important as the finds. Maps show exactly where each thing was found.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Draw a grid of squares on paper. Label the rows with letters and the columns with numbers. Place small objects on the grid. Write the square and a pretend depth for each one. Can a friend find them using your notes?

Outro

Archaeologists map a dig site with a grid of string squares, digging each square slowly, measuring depth, taking photos and notes, and sifting soil to catch tiny pieces. Science is amazing! The world under your feet is full of surprises. Keep digging into big questions, and keep exploring with me! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

Why I wrote this