Archaeological Dig

This project gives students a chance to take part in a physical ‘Archaeological Dig’. In lesson 1, assign your students a topic and get them to design artifacts to be 3D printed and then buried in an archaeological dig pit. In lesson 2, students will use trowels, spoons and brushes to conduct their own archaeological dig, uncovering their classmate's artifacts and documenting their finds.
Subjects
ComputingDesign and TechnologyScienceHistory
Years | Grades
8th Grade | 12-13 years9th Grade | 13-14 years10th Grade | 14-15 years7th Grade | 11-12 years
Duration
Lesson 1: 90 minutes Lesson 2: 90 minutes Print Time: ~2 hours

Archaeological Dig trailer
Play 0:39

Objectives

  • Design and measure with precision to an accuracy of 0.2 mm
  • Demonstrate how to align and combine objects in 3D CAD software
  • Employ tolerances and offsets to an accuracy of 0.2 mm
  • Design and 3D print an artifact relevant to your chosen topic
  • Demonstrate the ability to split a design down into 3D printable elements
  • Take part in a classroom ‘Archaeological Dig’ to uncover artifacts 
 

Tools and equipment

  • BE3D eDee printer and computers with CAD software
  • Example models
  • Files and sandpaper for post-processing operations (Optional)
  • 60+ liter plastic storage box 
  • 2.5Kg plaster of paris
  • 2.5Kg sand
  • 2.5Kg gravel
  • Enough earth / soil to fill the storage box to the top
  • Small trowels or spoons and paintbrushes
 

Skill requirements

To participate in the lesson, students should be able to:
  • Use TinkerCAD, Fusion 360 or Similar CAD software at an intermediate level
  • Be comfortable using DeeControl software including adjusting print settings
  • Use the BE3D eDee 3D printer

Archaeological Dig walkthrough
Locked Play 4:27

3D models overview

  • Total print time 9 hours 20 minutes
  • Total filament 20.8 m
  • Additional non-printable components
  • Printed all at once
ARROWHEAD
  • 20 minutes
  • 0.3 m
BONE
  • 1 hour
  • 2.2 m
CARTOUCHE
  • 2 hours 15 minutes
  • 6 m
POT BASE
  • 4 hours
  • 7.8 m
POT TOP
  • 1 hour 45 minutes
  • 4.5 m
Note: Values are calculated for one set of models.

Lesson resources

  • Lesson plan
  • Example models
  • Worksheet
  • Walkthrough
  • Presentation
  • 3D models
  • 3D print instructions
  • Curriculum alignment