Feature Identification

Definition

Feature identification refers to the process of recognizing and documenting distinct physical attributes or components within an archaeological site, such as structures, artifacts, or ecofacts that are associated with human activity. This process is critical in understanding how ancient cultures operated, as it allows archaeologists to piece together past behaviors, social structures, and environmental interactions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Feature identification helps in distinguishing between natural and anthropogenic formations at a site, which is crucial for accurate interpretation.
2. This process often involves recording the size, shape, and composition of features, enabling archaeologists to categorize them into types such as hearths, pits, or structures.
3. Feature identification is essential for reconstructing the layout and organization of past human settlements, providing insight into social hierarchies and daily activities.
4. Advanced technologies like GIS (Geographic Information Systems) are increasingly used to assist in feature identification by analyzing spatial data.
5. Proper feature identification can influence excavation strategies, determining which areas should be prioritized based on the significance of identified features.

Review Questions

• How does feature identification contribute to the understanding of ancient human behaviors?
  • Feature identification allows archaeologists to recognize specific structures and artifacts left behind by past cultures. By documenting these features, researchers can analyze patterns in human activity, social organization, and resource use. For example, identifying a hearth can indicate cooking practices or communal gatherings, providing valuable context about daily life in that society.
• Discuss the methods used in feature identification and their implications for excavation strategies.
  • Methods for feature identification include visual inspection, mapping, and the use of remote sensing technologies. These techniques help determine the nature and extent of features present at a site. The implications for excavation strategies are significant; once key features are identified, archaeologists can prioritize excavation efforts to maximize data recovery from areas of high potential significance while minimizing disruption to less informative zones.
• Evaluate the impact of modern technology on the process of feature identification in archaeology.
  • Modern technology has transformed feature identification by enhancing precision and efficiency. Tools like ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and GIS enable archaeologists to visualize subsurface features without extensive digging. This not only saves time but also helps preserve sites by reducing damage during excavation. Additionally, technological advancements allow for better data collection and analysis, leading to deeper insights into past cultures and their interactions with environments.

Related terms

Stratigraphy:

The study of rock layers and layering, which is used in archaeology to understand the chronological sequence of human activity through different layers of soil.

Contextual Analysis: The examination of the spatial and temporal relationships between archaeological finds to interpret their significance within a broader cultural framework.

Site Survey: A systematic investigation of a specific area to locate and evaluate archaeological resources before excavation, helping prioritize features for further study.