Forensics Syllabus

Semester II

This Forensics class includes information on analysis of fingerprints, hair, fiber, glass, soil and chemicals found at the scene (e.g. drugs, inks and DNA). Analytical thinking is used to solve crimes, possibly involving other academic departments. The Internet can be used for web quest projects and forensic information. The first semester of Chemistry Applications, Pharmacology and Biotechnology, is the basis for many of these forensic units and labs.

Unit I: Introduction to Forensics and the Crime scene

1.            Introduction to the Practice of Forensic Science

2.            Evidence Collection, Criminal Evidence and the Crime Scene

3.            Famous Criminal Cases Convicted by Forensic Science

4.            Forensic Science Webquest - DNA Fingerprinting with blood: forensic webquest

Unit II:  Forensic Analysis

1.          Fingerprints

2.          Drugs and Toxicology

3.          Hair and Fiber

4.          Glass

5.          Soil

Unit III: Forensic Analysis continued

1.          Anthropology

2.          Urinalysis

3.          Blood Typing ABO and RH Analysis

4.          DNA Fingerprinting

Unit IV:  Course Conclusions

1.      Webquest: "Bones and the Badge"

2.      Mock Crime Scene

3.      Mock Trial

Evaluation measures: Tests, quizzes, maintenance of laboratory notebook (black & white sewn composition books), projects with rubrics, student presentations, peer assessment, laboratory activities and reports.