Kimball Elementary sixth-graders were literally up to their arms in dirt. They were participating in the annual archeological dig. To prepare for the event, students met and learned from an archeologist. They have also been studying ancient cultures and countries including Greece, Samaria, and Egypt. “We have been preparing for this over the last year,” said sixth-grade teacher Paulette Hauge. “Students really look forward to this event.” Steven Sheldon explained that archaeologist Bruce Koenen from Fort Snelling came to their class. “He taught us what he does in his job,” said Sheldon. The archaeologist told the students that every job at a dig site is important. When uncovering objects, “he told us that you have to record [the items], wash them, write them down and take a picture of them,” said Sheldon. The whole sixth-grade class participated in the event and were split into groups. Based on what they learned from Koenen, the students took on one of the various roles that he described. Digging into the ground with shovels, participants uncovered various artifacts like ceramic pieces, bowls, metal scarps, bones and pieces of china. “Now it’s getting interesting,” said digger Becky Vossen, as she uncovered more artifacts. After the items were uncovered, they were given to the cleaner. Using a toothbrush and water to take the dirt of the items, Kayla Bollman said, “I clean the items and give them to the recorder.” The job of the recorder was to write a short description of items that were found, while the artists drew the objects with crayons and pencils. After the digging was complete, students were asked to identify which culture their remains represented. Each site area represented a different culture. For example, one site contained shell rocks and represented a culture that lived by water; while another site held barrettes, key rings and rubber items, representing a modern society. Students enjoyed the event and learned in the process. “This truly challenges the students,” said Hauge. “Students gain an appreciation of how difficult this job is. They also learn the awe of what is beneath our earth.”
