This seems to be a well thought-out and informative project. For other similated archaeology projects in recent years, see here, here, and here.Diggin’ Education: Curriculum includes search for –artifacts
The Woodlands Villager
By CHARLIE BIER
Updated: 01.10.09
Trey Thames believes students learn in places other than textbooks. Putting that belif into practice, the Biblical Studies and Latin teacher at The Woodlands Christian Academy has built a 50-foot by 50-foot simulated archaeological site on the school’s 40-acres at 5800 Academy Way.
The dig site, some 2,000 cubic yards of dirt and 15-plus tons of limestone and rock, is layered with about 50 artifacts.
As part of an elective archaeology course, TWCA students carefully unearth skeletons and bones, coins, pottery, iron tools and the foundations of four separate dwellings.
The field work helps illustrate the history and culture surrounding an Israeli city between 13th Century B.C. to 1st Century A.D.
[...]
Basically, Thames didn’t want to send students on a scattershot treasure hunt with his dig site.
“One of the things I really tried to do is make it as real as possible. There were moments in Israel when I was really excited about being there... then there were times it was like, ‘Wow, this is really hard work and I hate it,’” he said.
“Some days they were excited; some days it was a chore. It was a process, and I wanted them to get that whole experience.”
[...]
UPDATE (26 February): More here, including a dig website and a TV interview with Trey Thames.