Build a Skeleton

Osteoarchaeology is the branch of archaeology that deals with the study of bones found at archaeological sites. Human osteoarchaeology can tell us about the health, lifestyle, diet, mortality and physique of people in the past. It may also be able to shed light on genetic relationships and the movement of people. Techniques used by human osteoarchaeologists range from visual examination, through measurement of bones and teeth, to chemical and physical analyses.

This activity teaches you where the major bones are on a skeleton and how the bones in your skeleton join together. You could use a website like this to research what each of the bones is called and label your skeleton.

Dr Kirsty Squires – Society for the Study of Childhood in the Past

Adult supervision is not required for this activity.

Type of Activity : Crafting

How many people required (minimum) : 1

Safety Measures : Please be careful when using scissors – ask an adult to help you if needed.

Ages : All ages (younger children will need some help)

Time Required: 1 hour

Downloads:

https://www.yac-uk.org/userfiles/image/1604070640_Activity_1_Assemble_and_label_a_skeleton.pdf

Step 1

Print out the PDF linked above.

Step 2

Cut around each of the skeleton's body parts. Please be careful when using scissors.

Step 3

Arrange the pieces into the correct places, laying the black circles over each other. Use split pins to pierce through the black circles and connect the pieces together. If you are using thin cardboard you can use a ball of blu-tack or similar to help support the cardboard as you push the split pin through.

Step 4

Use the internet to research the correct names for each of the bones and label them accordingly.