What is the purpose and function of the Archaeological Resources Protection Act? Objective Students will use the Archaeological Resources Protection Act to learn how to read a federal law. Background Learning how to read a federal law is an important skill for Americans to know. This lesson plan will guide your class through the anatomy of a federal law, using the example of the Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA). The Antiquities Act of 1906 was the first law in the United States to protect archaeological sites and collections. Over time, Americans realized that the law needed more Duration: 60 Minutes.