Hammonton High School Forensics Curriculum 2012

Hammonton High School

Forensics Curriculum

2012

Hammonton High School DistrictCourse Proficiencies and Pacing

FORENSIC SCIENCE

Unit Title Essential question and Skills Recommended Duration

Unit #1: Introduction toForensic Science

What is forensic science and, why has science become integrated into the practice of law?How do the different disciplines used in Forensic Science help solve a crime in an investigation?

1. Students will identify various specialty professions within the field of Forensic Science.

2. Students will explain the differences between the perceived and actual roles of a forensic scientist.

3. Describe the relationship of forensics and the law 4. Explain the relevance of specific court cases to current

forensics practices 5. Describe typical courtroom proceedings 6. Explain the importance of the work of various forensics

pioneers7. Describe the development of technology important to

forensics

2 weeks

Unit #2: Observation skills Why is eyewitness testimony not reliable in a court of law?

1. Students will define Observations and what changes occur in the brain

2. Students will describe examples of factors influencing eyewitness accounts

3. Compare the reliability of eyewitness testimony to what actually happened

2 weeks

Unit #3: Crime SceneInvestigation andEvidence Collection

Why is proper evidence collection important when trying to solve a crime?How is evidence used to determine whether a crime has been committed?

1 Explain the procedures used to process a crime scene.2 Students will explain the proper way to classify and process

evidence 3 Be able to secure a crime scene

4 Search a crime scene

5 Collect evidence and retain the “chain of evidence”

6 Draw and use a crime scene sketch

2 weeks

Unit #4: trace evidence How is trace evidence used to solve crimesWhat are different forms of trace evidence

1. Understand the morphology of a hair follicle: cuticle, cortex, medulla, cortical fusi, ovoid bodies, root, follicle, pigment granules, follicular

2. Differentiate between human versus animal hair samples3. Demonstrate the proper procedures in collecting and analyzing

trace evidence4. Compare hair samples using a collection of controls5. Compare synthetic versus natural fibers

3 weeks

6. Test methods used for fiber identificationUnit #5 Impressions How are impressions a form of trace evidence that can be used to help

solve crimes?How are different types of impressions used in criminal investigations?

1. Students will distinguish between latent, patent and plastic impressions

2. Students will describe how to make foot, shoe, dental, and tire impressions.

3. Students will match tool marks with the instrument that produced them

4. Students will describe how tool mark evidence is collected preserved and documented

3 weeks

Unit #6 Ballistics and glass How does the study of ballistics in forensic science help in criminal investigationsWhy do citizens have the right to carry guns

1. Students will describe the 9th amendment and defend their opinion on it

2. Students will discuss the differences between types of guns3. Students will describe how shells and casing help solve crimes4. Students will determine the position of the shooter based on

bullet trajectory5. Students will explain the role of ballistic and glass recovery at a

crime

3 weeks

Unit #7 Fingerprints How can fingerprints be used to identify individuals? How are fingerprints collected from a crime scene, or from items of evidence, used in forensic science to solve a crime?

1. Discuss the history of fingerprinting2. Describe the characteristics of fingerprinting3. Explain what the basic types of fingerprints are4. Discuss the latest’s methods in lifting a fingerprint5. Describe what AFIS is and how is it used to solve crime6. Process latent prints on a variety of surfaces using different

methods7. Comparing fingerprints found at the crime scene with known

samples

3 weeks

Unit #8: Document Examination

How is document analysis used to help investigators solve crimes?What procedures are used by forensic scientists to process questioned documents?.

1. Students will identify the characteristics of questioned documents that are most useful in forensic comparisons.

2. Students will demonstrate procedures used by forensic scientists to process questioned documents.

3. Students will explain the importance of evidence databases available to forensic scientists.

2 weeks

Unit #9: DNA How is DNA used to help solve crimes?Why can we use DNA to exonerate or convict suspects?

1. Students will identify the characteristics of DNA that is most useful in forensic comparisons.

2. Students will demonstrate procedures used by the forensic scientist when processing DNA evidence. Students will explain the importance of DNA databases available to forensic

3 weeks

scientists.3. Explain the importance of various DNA markers to criminal

investigations 4. Describe the methods of DNA collection, amplification, and

analysis Unit #10: Serology and Blood Pattern Analysis

Describe the How is serology used to help solve crimesHow are blood patterns used to help solve crimesHow is urine analysis used to help solve crimes

1. various components of blood, and the evidence each part contains

2. Describe the nature of blood type, and its relative importance as evidence

3. Describe different blood stain patterns based on source, direction, and angle of trajectory

4. Explain the method of chemically isolating old, invisible blood stains

2 weeks

Unit #11: Poisons and toxicology

What is the job of forensic toxicologists?How would identifying poisons and drugs help solve criminal cases?

1. Describe the role of a forensic Toxicologist2. Discuss the effects of drugs and poisons on the body3. Describe analytical techniques for detection and identification

of poisons and rugs4. Compare the differences between poisons and drugs

2 weeks

Unit #12 Anthropology What is the job of forensic anthropologists?How do Forensic anthropologists use the remains of a Skelton to help solve criminal cases? What can be determined by analyzing skeletal remains?

1. Describe the morphology of bones2. Distinguish between male and female skeletal remains3. Describe how bones contain a record of injuries and disease4. Demonstrate how one can determined age, gender, race,

height using skeletal remains5. Explain how an investigator use the remains of a skeleton to

identify a suspect or individual

2 weeks

Unit #13 Pathology What is the job of a forensic pathologist?How do Forensic pathologists use the remains of a body to help solve criminal cases?

1. Discuss the definition of death2. Distinguish between four manners of death3. Explain how the development of rigor, algor and livor mortis

can help determine time of death4. Describe the stages of decomposition 5. Explain how time of death can be inferred using insect

infestation, and succession

2 weeks

NJCCCS:

Core Content standards used in Forensics

5.1.12 A1 Refine interrelationships among concepts and patterns of evidence found in different central scientific explanations

5.1.12 A2 Develop and use mathematical, physical, and computational tools to build evidence-based models and to pose theories.

5.1.12 A3 Use scientific principles and theories to build and refine standards for data collection, posing controls, and presenting evidence.

5.1.12 B1 Design investigations, collect evidence, analyze data, and evaluate evidence to determine measures of central tendencies, causal/correlation relationships, and anomalous data.

5.1.12 B2 Build, refine, and represent evidence-based models using mathematical, physical, and computational tools.

5.1.12 B3 Revise predictions and explanations using evidence, and connect explanations/arguments to established scientific knowledge, models, and theories.

5.1.12 B4 Develop quality controls to examine data sets and to examine evidence as a means of generating and reviewing explanations.

5.1.12 C1 Reflect on and revise understandings as new evidence emerges.

5.1.12 C2 Use data representations and new models to revise predictions and explanations.

5.1.12 C3 Consider alternative theories to interpret and evaluate evidence-based arguments.

5.1.12 D1 Engage in multiple forms of discussion in order to process, make sense of, and learn from others’ ideas, observations, and experiences.

5.1.12 D2 Represent ideas using literal representations, such as graphs, tables, journals, concept maps, and diagrams.

5.1.12 D3 Demonstrate how to use scientific tools and instruments and knowledge of how to handle animals with respect for their safety and welfare.

Hammonton High School

Science Department Materials List

Forensics

HAMMONTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

CURRICULUM PROJECT

Creating a Student-Centered Classroom

Content Area: Forensics

Unit Title: 1. Introduction to Forensic ScienceTarget Course/Grade Level: Grade 11-12

School: Hammonton High School

UNIT SUMMARY

What is forensic science and, why has science become integrated into the practice of law? Who are the major contributors to the development of forensic science? What are the various specialty fields included within the broad realm of forensic science? How do real world roles and responsibilities of forensic professionals compare to fictitious versions portrayed on film?

21st Century Skills: Critical thinking and problem solving; Communication; Collaboration; Creativity and Innovation

21st Century Themes: Civic Literacy; Financial, Economic, Business and Entrepreneurial Literacy; Global Awareness; Health Literacy; Environmental Literacy

STAGE ONE: LEARNING TARGETS

2009 New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards including Cumulative Progress Indicator (CPI):

NJCCCS: NJCCCS: 5.1.12 B1-4, C1-3, D1-3; 8.1.12 F1-2; 9.1.12 A1, A4; 9.1.12 F2, F6

Unit Essential Questions:

1. What is forensic science and, why has science become integrated into the practice of law 2. How do the different disciplines used in Forensic Science help solve a crime in an investigation

Unit Enduring Understandings:

1. Due to advances in science, forensic science has become integrated into the practice of law2. Different professionals make up a crime scene unit3. There are many differences between perceived and actual roles of forensic scientists

Key Knowledge and Skills students will acquire as a result of this unit:

Students will be able to …

1. Students will recognize the major contributors to the development of Forensic Science including the advancements in tools, techniques, and crime lab services.

2. Students will identify various specialty professions within the field of Forensic Science.3. Students will explain the differences between the perceived and actual roles of a forensic

scientist.

STAGE TWO: EVIDENCE OF LEARNING

Summative Assessment:

Projects

Chapter Test

Formative Assessments:

Quizzes

Written Assignments

Research Assignments

Student Self-Assessment and Reflection:

Lab conclusions

Essay response questions

STAGE THREE: THE LEARNING PLAN

Sequence of teaching and learning experiences

Unit Resources

Anthony, J . Bettino, Tocsin, S. Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations. Cengage Learning. 2008

Walker, Pam., Wood, Elaine. Crime Scenes Investigations. Prentice Hall 1998

DVD: CSI The First season. Paramount Pictures 2003

Web resources:a. trutv.comb. school.cengage.com/forensicsciencec. prenhall.forensics.comd. projectinnocence.come. sciencespot.netf. pbs.orgg. investigationdiscovery.com/investigation/forensics/forensicsh. fbi.govi. High School Teachers of Forensic Science (www.HSTOFS.org)j. www.forensicdentistryonline.com/k. eskeletons.org

l. forensicartist.com/index.html

Instructional Guidelines: Aligning Learning Activities

History of forensics

1. What is forensic science and who are the key contributors to the field of forensics2. Explain how forensics science relies on multiple disciplines to solve crimes3. Explain Locard’s Exchange Principle4. Admissibility of evidence (Frye and Daubert decisions)5. Specialty areas: pathology, entomology, anthropology, toxicology, serology, medical, examiner/coroner, botany,

odontology, podiatry, psychiatry, engineering, and other, expert fields relating to forensics6. Actual versus fictitious examples7. CSI Effect

Teaching Strategies

1. Class notes via lecture, PowerPoint, Ipad, overhead projector, and class discussion

Performance Tasks : Hands-on lab activities and cooperative group work

1. Lab -Table for 2 mini crime scene that tests student powers of observation and objectivity; use a white t-shirt2. Project – Poster board job advertisement for specific forensic discipline3. Student dissection of a fictitious portrayal of forensic professionals (such as seen on CSI to highlight accuracy and

embellishment as seen through their inexperienced eyes4. Video such as: “Anderson Cooper 360 The CSI Effect”

5. Lab 1-7 deductive reasoning : Crime Scenes Investigations


CURRICULUM PROJECT



Unit Title: 2. ObservationsTarget Course/Grade Level: Grade 11-12


UNIT SUMMARY

Due to the many variables that can influence eyewitness accounts, eyewitness testimony is considered too be subjective and not objective enough to convict in a court of law





NJCCCS: NJCCCS: 5.1.12 B1-4, C1-3, D1-3; 8.1.12 F1-2; 9.1.12 A1, A4; 9.1.12 F2, F6


1. Why is eyewitness testimony not reliable in a court of law


1. Your brain interprets data in other ways, besides perception2. There are many variables that influence perception which leads to faulty eyewitness accounts3. Eyewitness testimony is not reliable due to misperceptions of reality



1. Students will define observations and describe what changes occur in the brain

2. Students will describe examples of factors influencing eyewitness accounts.3. Compare the reliability of eyewitness testimony to what actually happened



Projects

Chapter Test


Quizzes

Written Assignments

Research Assignments


Lab conclusions




Unit Resources

Anthony, J. Bertino, Tocci, S. Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations. Engage Learning. 2008






1. What is Observation2. Eyewitness vs. expert eyewitness3. Variables that influence recall4.

Teaching Strategies


Performance Tasks : Hands-on lab activities and cooperative group work

1. Labs 1-1 , 1-3 on observations and memory recall Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations


CURRICULUM PROJECT


Content Area: Forensic

Unit Title: 3. Crime Scene Investigation and Evidence Collection

Target Course/Grade Level: Grade 11-12


UNIT SUMMARY

What are the responsibilities of the first responder and Crime scene technicians at a crime scene? How do investigators thoroughly search for crime scene evidence? What steps should be taken to meticulously document, illustrate, and reconstruct the crime scene? How is evidence properly recognized, collected, and packaged??





NJCCCS: 5.1.12 A1-3, B1-4, C1-3, D1-3; 5.3.12 A1-6, B1-2, D1; 8.1.12 F1-2; 9.1.12 A1, A4; 9.1.12 F2, F6

Unit Essential Questions

1. Why is proper evidence collection important when trying to solve a crime?2. How is evidence used to determine whether a crime has been committed?


1. Crime scenes must be processed in a procedural manner2. The location and handling of evidence is essential to crime scene investigation?3. Collecting, sketching and securing a crime scene is essential in solving a crime



1. Explain the procedures used to process a crime scene.2. Students will explain the proper way to classify and process evidence 3. Be able to secure a crime scene

4. Search a crime scene

5. Collect evidence and retain the “chain of evidence”

6. Draw and use a crime scene sketch STAGE TWO: EVIDENCE OF LEARNING


Lab Practicum

Projects

Chapter Test


Quizzes

Written Assignments

Research

Assignments


Lab conclusions




Unit Resources:

Anthony, J . Bettino , Tocsin, S. Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations. Cengage Learning. 2008



Web resources:a. trutv.com

b. school.cengage.com/forensicsciencec. prenhall.forensics.comd. projectinnocence.come. sciencespot.netf. pbs.orgg. investigationdiscovery.com/investigation/forensics/forensicsh. fbi.govi. High School Teachers of Forensic Science (www.HSTOFS.org)j. www.forensicdentistryonline.com/k. eskeletons.org



1. Define Principal of exchange 2. Individual versus class evidence3. Types of evidence (biological, chemical, etc.)4. Steps in securing, preserving, and processing a crime scene5. Differences in Primary/Secondary crime scenes, Staged crimes, and Search patterns6. Observations about crime scene environment and Evidence marking7. Crime scene and evidence contamination8. Examples of evidence packaging materials and Chain of custody9. Direct versus circumstantial evidence

Teaching Strategies


PERFORMANCE TASKS

1. Hands-on lab activities and cooperative group work such as:a. Create a crime scene for students to process; (indoor and/or outdoor) including take

notes/description of scene, search/locate evidence, evidence marking, measurements, drawings, photography, sketches 2.

2. Locard principal Lab 2-1 : Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations3. Crime scene investigation lab 2-2: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations


CURRICULUM PROJECT



Unit Title: 4. Trace Evidence



UNIT SUMMARY

What is the structure of hair? What key pieces of information can be obtained from microscopic examination of hair? How can different types of fibers be distinguished and identified? How are other types of trace evidence collected, analyzed and used in an investigation





NJCCCS: 5.1.12 A1-3, B1-4, C1-3, D1-3; 8.1.12 F1-2; 9.1.12 A1, A4; 9.1.12 F2, F6


1. How is trace evidence used to solve crimes2. What are different forms of trace evidence


1. Hair and fiber are considered trace evidence, and if identified, can be used to help solve criminal investigations.

2. There are different methodologies for analyzing hair and fiber sample based on the physical and chemical properties



7. Understand the morphology of a hair follicle: cuticle, cortex, medulla, cortical fusi, ovoid bodies, root, follicle, pigment granules, follicular

8. Differentiate between human versus animal hair samples9. Demonstrate the proper procedures in collecting and analyzing trace evidence10. Compare hair samples using a collection of controls11. Compare synthetic versus natural fibers12. Test methods used for fiber identification



Lab Practicum

Projects

Chapter Test


Quizzes

Written Assignments

Research

Assignments


Lab conclusions




Unit Resources

Anthony, J. Bertino, Tocci, S. Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations. Cengage Learning. 2008






13. Morphology: cuticle, cortex, medulla, cortical fusi, ovoid bodies, root, follicle, pigment granules, follicular14. Tag Medulla and scale patterns15. Human versus animal species determination16. Race determination17. Origin of location on the body18. Manner of removal19. DNA and toxicology analysis20. Hair comparisons / collection of controls21. Probative value of hair evidence22. Synthetic versus natural fibers23. Test methods used for identification

Teaching Strategies


PERFORMANCE TASKS

1. Hands-on lab activities and cooperative group work such as:a. microscopic examination of human hair, other animal species hair; human hair scale patternsb. students collect and examine hair from a “crime scene” for comparison using a microscopec. microscopic examination/comparison of natural and synthetic fibers; students collect and examine fibers from

a “crime scene” for comparison using a microscope microscopic examination of soil types /plant material/ dust/metal/glass etc.; students collect and examine other types of trace evidence from a “crime scene” for comparison using a microscope; fracture matching using microscopes

2. Trace evidence hair 3-1,2,-3 : Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations3. Fiber lab 4-1,5: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations


CURRICULUM PROJECT



Unit Title: 5. Impressions



UNIT SUMMARY

Impressions can be considered both class and individual evidence based on the amount of detail present. Proper collecting and comparisons can help identify a suspect at a crime scene







1. How are impressions a form of trace evidence that can be used to help solve crimes?2. How are different types of impressions used in criminal investigations


1. The various types of impressions left at a crime scene can be used as trace evidence2. Latent, patent and plastic impressions are all collected using different methods

3. Impression use exemplars to help identify matches



1. Distinguish between latent, patent and plastic impressions2. Describe how to make foot, shoe, dental, and tire impressions.3. Match tool marks with the instrument that produced them4. Describe how tool mark evidence is collected preserved and documented



Projects

Chapter Test


Quizzes

Written Assignments

Research

Assignments


Lab conclusions




Unit Resources







1.Types of impressions2. types of Shoe impressions/shoe wear patterns3.types of Tire impressions4. types of Dental impressions5. Types of tool impressions

Teaching Strategies


PERFORMANCE TASKS

1. Hands-on lab activities and cooperative group work such as:a. Lab on dental impression work sheet using marshmallowsb. Lab on tire impression comparison using toy carsc. Lab 15-2 shoe size vs. height: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigationsd. Lab 16-1, 2 tool impressions: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigationse. Lab 1-6 shoe impressions :Crime Scenes Investigationsf. Lab 2-1 tool marks: Crime Scenes Investigations


CURRICULUM PROJECT



Unit Title: 6. Ballistics and glass

Target Course/Grade Level: Grade 11 -12


UNIT SUMMARY

The term ballistics refers to the science of the travel of a projectile in flight. The flight path of a bullet includes: travel down the barrel, path through the air and path through a target. Forensic ballistics is the science of analyzing firearm usage in crimes.







1. How does the study of ballistics in forensic science help in criminal investigations2. Why do citizens have the right to carry guns


1. The 9th amendment has a direct impact in the legality of carrying and selling weapons2. The modern gun went through many evolutions and revisions3. Cartridge shells leaving a gun create indentations that help investigators solve crimes 4. You can determine the position of a shooter using trajectory models5. The impact a bullet makes on glass, and the characteristics of the glass can help investigators analyze a crime scene



1. Students will describe the 9th amendment and defend their opinion on it2. Students will discuss the differences between types of guns3. Students will describe how shells and casing help solve crimes4. Students will determine the position of the shooter based on bullet trajectory5. Students will explain the role of ballistic and glass recovery at a crime scene



Projects

Chapter Test


Quizzes

Written Assignments


Lab conclusions




Unit Resources




DVD: Bowling for Columbine




1. History of the 9th amendment and the importance in forensics2. History of gunpowder and firearms3. Types of guns and bullets4. How bullets and casings are used to solve crimes5. Explanation of trajectories6. Trajectory Analysis7. Modern forensics and ballistic analysis

Teaching Strategies


2. Movie: Bowling for Columbine with accompanying worksheet

3. Videos from YouTube

PERFORMANCE TASK

1. Hands-on lab activities and cooperative group work such as:

a. Lab 17-1 bullet trajectory: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations


CURRICULUM PROJECT



Unit Title: 7. Fingerprints



UNIT SUMMARY

Fingerprints collected from a crime scene, or from items of evidence from a crime, can be used in forensic science to identify suspects, victims and other persons who touched the surface in question. Collecting, classifying, and matching fingerprints found at a crime scene replaced older anthropometric measurements as a more reliable method for identifying persons having a prior record, often under an alias name, in a criminal record repository. The science of fingerprint identification stands out among all other forensic sciences for many reasons because of its superiority and reliability







1. How can fingerprints be used to identify individuals?2. How are fingerprints collected from a crime scene, or from items of evidence, used in forensic science to solve a

crime?


1. Fingerprint identification is a reliable method for identifying persons2. Fingerprints can be classified as individual and class evidence3. The study of fingerprints evolved over many years4. There are many unique characteristics of fingerprinting5. There are different methods in lifting a fingerprint6. AFIS is a database used to solve crimes

Key Knowledge and Skills students will acquire as a result of this unit


1. Discuss the history of fingerprinting

2. Describe the characteristics of fingerprinting

3. Explain what the basic types of fingerprints are

4. Discuss the latest’s methods in lifting a fingerprint

5. Describe what AFIS is and how is it used to solve crime

6. Process latent prints on a variety of surfaces using different methods

7. Comparing fingerprints found at the crime scene with known samples



Projects

Chapter Test


Quizzes

Written Assignments


Lab conclusions




Unit Resources




Fingerprinting fume hood




1. History of fingerprinting2. Biological importance of fingerprints3. Characteristics of fingerprints4. Identifying fingerprints5. Lifting fingerprints6. Process latent prints on a variety of surfaces using different methods7. Comparing fingerprints found at the crime scene with known samples

Teaching Strategies



3. Demo Lab on luminal fingerprints

PERFORMANCE TASK


b. Lab 6- (1-6) fingerprinting: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations


CURRICULUM PROJECT



Unit Title: 8. Document analysis



UNIT SUMMARY

Forensic document examiners look at handwriting, typewriting, types of ink or paper, and other characteristics about documents in order to solve crimes







1. How is document analysis used to help investigators solve crimes?2. What procedures are used by forensic scientists to process questioned documents?


1. Forensic document examiners look at handwriting, typewriting, types of ink or paper, and other characteristics about documents in order to solve crimes.

2. Forensics can help determine the authenticity of a document and uncover forgeries, e.g., by comparing the

handwriting of the person who supposedly wrote a document to the document itself



1. Students will identify the characteristics of questioned documents that are most useful in forensic comparisons.2. Students will demonstrate procedures used by forensic scientists to process questioned documents.3. Students will explain the importance of evidence databases available to forensic scientists



Projects

Chapter Test


Quizzes

Written Assignments


Lab conclusions




Unit Resources




DVD: Catch Me if you can




1. History of forensic handwriting analysis2. Ways to analyze a handwriting sample3. Characteristics of handwriting4. Technology used in HW analysis5. Ways to analyze forgeries and counterfeiting6. Modern technology in analyze forgeries and counterfeiting

Teaching Strategies



3. Movie: Catch me if you can

PERFORMANCE TASK


2. Lab 10- (1-2) Document analysis: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations3. Lab 1-1: Who wrote this: Crime Scenes Investigations4. Lab 1-2: Typewriter: Crime Scenes Investigations5. Lab 1-3: Chromatography: Crime Scenes Investigations


CURRICULUM PROJECT



Unit Title: 9. DNA



UNIT SUMMARY

DNA profiling (also called DNA testing, DNA typing, or genetic fingerprinting) is a technique employed by forensic scientists to assist in the identification of individuals by their respective DNA

21st Century Skills: Critical thinking and problem solving; Communication; Collaboration; Creativity and

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DNA

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forensic_scientist

Innovation






1. How is DNA used to help solve crimes2. Why can we use DNA to exonerate or convict suspects


1. Various DNA markers are important in a criminal investigations 2. DNA needs to be properly collected and analyzed before used in an investigation

3. There are multiple steps in producing a DNA fingerprint

4. DNA comparisons with a database are important in both convicting and exonerating suspects



1. Identify the characteristics of DNA that is most useful in forensic comparisons.2. Demonstrate procedures used by the forensic scientist when processing DNA evidence.3. Explain the importance of DNA databases available to forensic scientists



Projects

Chapter Test


Quizzes

Written Assignments


Lab conclusions




Unit Resources







1. Structure and function of DNADNA analysis procedures

2. DNA identification3. Sources of DNA4. Analysis of DNA

Teaching Strategies



3. Movie: Trial of the century: OJ Simpson

PERFORMANCE TASK

1. Hands-on lab activities and cooperative group work such as:2. Lab 7-4 DNA: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations3. Lab 7-5 DNA: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations4. Lab 7-6 DNA: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations5. Famous Case Study to research such as: The Green River Killer (Gary Rideway)6. Web quests such as:“Virtual DNA Extraction”http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/labs/extraction7. Web quests such as:www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/shepard/labwave.html (make a DNA profile)


CURRICULUM PROJECT



Unit Title: 10. Serology and blood pattern analysis



UNIT SUMMARY

Serology is the study of blood serum, along with saliva, semen and other bodily fluids. Forensic serology studies in relation to crimes and other legal matters. Using a biological approach to the law and crime investigation, forensic serologists work on cases involving homicides, rapes, assaults and paternity disputes







1. How is serology used to help solve crimes2. How are blood patterns used to help solve crimes3. How is urine analysis used to help solve crimes


1. Their are various components of blood, each helping forensic scientists solve cases 2. Blood typing is important as evidence in a crime scene

3. Different blood stain patterns can help you solve crimes based on their source, direction, and angle of trajectory

4. There are modern method of chemically isolating old, invisible blood stains to make them visible

5. Urine has a lot of metabolic waste that can be used to solve crimes



1. Identify each of the components of blood (using prepared microscope slides) 2. Describe the function of blood cells

3. Determine blood type (using simulated blood) and calculate the probability

4. Determine the direction and trajectory of blood stains Process old blood stains (using non-human blood sources)

5. Determine different organic molecules using artificial urine

6. Solve crimes based on blood stains, blood type and the make up of urine



Projects

Chapter Test


Quizzes

Written Assignments


Lab conclusions




Unit Resources







1. The Composition of blood

2. Importance of blood typing and how to identify someone using blood type

3. Identify different types of blood spatter

4. Analyze blood spatter to help solve crimes

5. The Composition of urine

6. Importance of urine to identify someone

7. Analyze urine to help solve crimes

Teaching Strategies



PERFORMANCE TASK


2. Lab 8-1 Blood: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations3. Lab 8-2 Blood: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations

4. Lab 8-3 blood: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations

5. Lab 8-4 Blood: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations6. Lab 8-5 Blood: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations7. Lab 8-6 blood: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations


CURRICULUM PROJECT



Unit Title: 11. Poisons and Toxicology



UNIT SUMMARY

Forensic toxicology is the use of toxicology and other disciplines such as analytical chemistry, pharmacology and clinical chemistry to aid medical or legal investigation of death, poisoning, and drug use. The primary concern for forensic toxicology is not the legal outcome of the toxicological investigation or the technology utilized, but rather the obtaining and interpreting of the results. A toxicological analysis can be done to various kinds of samples.







1. What is the job of a forensic toxicologists 2. How would identifying poisons and drugs help solve criminal cases?


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clinical_chemistry

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pharmacology

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Analytical_chemistry

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toxicology

1. Drugs and poisons are illegal because they interfere with normal bodily functions2. The role of a forensic Toxicologist is to analyze drugs and poisons3. There are many analytical techniques for detecting poisons and drugs



5. Describe the role of a forensic Toxicologist6. Discuss the effects of drugs and poisons on the body7. Describe analytical techniques for detection and identification of poisons and rugs8. Compare the differences between poisons and drugs



Projects

Chapter Test


Quizzes

Written Assignments


Lab conclusions




Unit Resources







1. History of poisons2. Morphology of poisons on the body3. Morphology of drugs on the body4. Relate signs and symptoms of overdose to specific drugs and poisons5. Modern techniques in collecting and analyzing drugs and poisons

Teaching Strategies



PERFORMANCE TASK


9. Lab 9-1 Drug analysis: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations10. Lab 9-2 Urine analysis: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations11. Lab 9-3 Drug identification: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations


CURRICULUM PROJECT



Unit Title: 12. Anthropology



UNIT SUMMARY

Forensic anthropology is the application of the science of physical anthropology in a legal setting, most often in criminal cases where the victim's remains are in the advanced stages of decomposition. A forensic anthropologist can assist in the identification of deceased individuals whose remains are decomposed, burned, mutilated or otherwise unrecognizable.







1. What is the job of a forensic anthropologists 2. How do Forensic anthropologists use the remains of a Skelton to help solve criminal cases?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decomposition

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Physical_anthropology

3. What can be determined by analyzing skeletal remains?


1. Skeletal remains can be used to identify age, gender, race, and height2. Skeletal remains can help investigators identify a suspect or individual



1. Describe the morphology of bones2. Distinguish between male and female skeletal remains3. Describe how bones contain a record of injuries and disease4. Demonstrate how one can determined age, gender, race, height using skeletal remains5. Explain how an investigator use the remains of a skeleton to identify a suspect or individual



Projects

Chapter Test


Quizzes

Written Assignments


Lab conclusions




Unit Resources



DVD: The Bone collector. Paramount Pictures 200

DVD: The Ice man murder mystery.




1. The morphology of the skeleton2. Distinguish between age, gender, race, height using skeletal remains3. using skeletal remains to help Identify individuals using databases4. Modern procedures on collecting and analyzing skeletal remains

Teaching Strategies



PERFORMANCE TASK


13. Lab 13-1 Determining the age of a skull: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations14. Lab 13-2 Determining the gender using skeletal remains: Forensic Science Fundamentals and

Investigations15. Lab 13- 4 Determining body size using skeletal remains: Forensic Science Fundamentals and

Investigations16. Lab 13 –5 Medical examiner findings: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations


CURRICULUM PROJECT



Unit Title: 13. Pathology



UNIT SUMMARY

Forensic pathology is a branch of pathology concerned with determining the cause of death by examination of a corpse. The autopsy is performed by a coroner or medical examiner usually during the investigation of criminal law cases and civil law cases in some jurisdictions. Coroners and medical examiners are also frequently asked to confirm the identity of a corpse. 21st

Century Skills: Critical thinking and problem solving; Communication; Collaboration; Creativity and Innovation






1. What is the job of a forensic pathologist 2. How do Forensic pathologists use the remains of a body to help solve criminal cases?


1. Understanding the mechanism and cause of death can help investigators solve a crime2. Forensic pathologists can use Rigor, Algor and livor mortis to determine time of death3. Forensic pathologists can use the stages of decomposition to determine time of death

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jurisdictions

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Civil_law_(common_law)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Criminal_law

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medical_examiner

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coroner

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autopsy

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cause_of_death

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pathology



6. Discuss the definition of death7. Distinguish between four manners of death8. Explain how the development of rigor, algor and livor mortis can help determine time of death9. Describe the stages of decomposition 10. Explain how time of death can be inferred using insect infestation, and succession



Projects

Chapter Test


Quizzes

Written Assignments


Lab conclusions




Unit Resources



DVD: CSI: Crime Scene Investigation (season 1)



Teaching Strategies



PERFORMANCE TASK

1. Hands-on lab activities and cooperative group work such as:a. Lab 15-1 criminal profiling: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations


CURRICULUM PROJECT



Unit Title: 13. Psychology and Serial Killers



UNIT SUMMARY

A criminal profiler is someone who has extensively studied psychology and criminology. Although they don't solve crimes themselves, they play an important part in the crime solving process, especially in major homicide cases. The criminal profiler’s works as expert witnesses providing unbiased testimony in criminal court cases that may benefit from a psychological view of the criminal mind. They spend most of their time researching connections between criminals and the crimes they commit. Looking at previous criminals, and how or why they committed their crimes, allows profilers to more accurately profile future criminals.






1. What is the job of a forensic criminologist 2. How do Forensic criminologists use profiling to help solve criminal cases?


1. Understanding the mechanism and cause of death can help investigators solve a crime2. Forensic pathologists can use Rigor, Algor and livor mortis to determine time of death

3. Forensic pathologists can use the stages of decomposition to determine time of death



1. List key contributors to and their work in the field of criminal profiling2. Explain the stage of criminal profiling3. Describe the importance of victimology in the criminal profiling process4. Differentiate between the roles of an investigator and profiler



Projects

Chapter Test


Quizzes

Written Assignments


Lab conclusions




Unit Resources



DVD: The Silence of the Lambs 1991

Web resources:a. trutv.comb. school.cengage.com/forensicsciencec. prenhall.forensics.comd. projectinnocence.come. sciencespot.netf. pbs.orgg. investigationdiscovery.com/investigation/forensics/forensicsh. fbi.govi. High School Teachers of Forensic Science (www.HSTOFS.org)j. www.forensicdentistryonline.com/k. eskeletons.orgl. forensicartist.com/index.html


1. History of criminal profiling2. Stages of the profiling process3. Victimology4. Famous case studies

Teaching Strategies



PERFORMANCE TASK

Hands-on lab activities and cooperative group work such as:Lab 11-1 death and decomp: Forensic Science Fundamentals and InvestigationsLab 11-2 death and decomp: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations Lab 11-1 Mortis 1 -3: Forensic Science Fundamentals and Investigations

Documents

Hammonton High School Forensics Curriculum 2012