The American Institute of Archeology suggests implementing simulated dig projects into archeology curriculum. These simulated digs teach basic archeological principles of excavation, teamwork during an excavation, observation, evidence gathering and analysis. Ideas for lesson plans for younger children include a simulated dig that uses a layered cake as the excavation site. Older children can use realistic materials for their dig, including large boxes filled with soil and dirt as well as actual land digs on approved land.
When teaching a student about American history, consider ancient cultures and their influence on American history. Lesson plans regarding hieroglyphs and cuneiform writings and how those writings influenced today's form of communication helps teach students about the Near East ancient civilizations. Vase and bowl painting lessons introduce students to lifestyles of cultures such as ancient Greece and ancient Mayan civilizations.
When considering American history, teach students to consider the present day effects of historical events and traditions and the effects on the future. Using trash as a lesson plans regarding past cultures and how their behaviors and lifestyle can teach a student about the archeological study of discarded objects by a civilization. Focusing on the discarded objects of ancient people can help give a student an understanding to the lifestyle practices they held.
As ancient cultures affected American history, current cultures will affect the future. American history archeological lesson plans must be focused on the effects our lifestyle and practices have on future cultures. Have students evaluate their home and their classroom to decide which items will survive and still be in use in the future, and which items will be obsolete. Students must be encouraged to put themselves into the shoes of the future archeologist and consider how they would come to conclusions without these "lost" items as references.