Key facts
UNE unit code: ARPA309
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2026
- Yes
- Yes
- No
- 6
Unit information
Zooarchaeology (faunal analysis) is the study of bone in the archaeological record. This unit surveys the major methods and techniques used in archaeological faunal analysis. You will examine the way faunal data is used to reconstruct aspects of human behaviour, including subsistence strategies in hunter-gatherer societies, the process of animal domestication, trade, social status, and ethnicity.
You will also learn basic identification/analysis of human and animal bones from archaeological sites using a combination of 3D models and physical bones. Particular attention is given to zooarchaeology in Australian contexts.
Intensive schools
| Start | Finish | Duration | Attendance | Offerings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TBA | TBA | 2 days | Non-Mandatory Intensive School | All offerings | The intensive school will incorporate practical work with skeletal remains. Dates to be advised. |
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate a broad understanding of the theoretical basis for analysing bone;
- understand appropriate statistical, qualitative and quantitative techniques to process osteological data in the archaeological record;
- identify the potential and limitations of faunal analysis in site interpretation in the archaeological record;
- exhibit a coherent understanding of the way in which osteological material can be used to reconstruct natural and cultural processes in the archaeological record;
- demonstrate a broad and coherent body of knowledge of the background and major contending perspectives on zooarchaeology, and present a coherent and independent exposition of knowledge and ideas; and
- apply skills in identifying bones, including species, body part, age and taphonomic factors.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 40% | All offerings | 4 quizzes worth 10% each No. Words: 2000 |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Forum posts No. Words: 500 |
| Assignment 3 | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Online Final Exam No. Words: 2500 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Animal Bones in Australian Archaeology
ISBN: 9781743324332
Fillios, M. and Blake, N., Sydney University Press 2015
Text refers to: All offerings
Vertebrate Taphonomy
ISBN: 9780521458405
Lyman, R. L., Cambridge University Press 1994
Text refers to: All offerings
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