Forensic Science Investigation

A who-dunnit circus of activities

Lesson idea. These five lab activities have an investigative slant in a ‘real world’ context and introduce:

• the science topic ’acids and bases’ by measuring the pH of soil found on a crime suspect’s shoe,
• the technique of chromatography, by comparing the ink from a pen at the crime scene with ink owned by a suspect - chromatography is used in work to distinguish between mixtures and compounds,
• human variation by comparing a suspect’s thumbprint with that found at the crime scene - fingerprinting has often been used as a starter, activity for discussing what we inherit from our parents,
• the topic ’acids and bases’ in an activity where pupils measure the acidity of household liquids and classify them accordingly.

Teaching approach. This lesson introduces inquiry^(ta)-based learning through the topic of forensic science. It engages pupils in higher order^(ta) reasoning^(ta) solving a variety of forensic problems.

Resource details
Title	Forensic Science Investigation
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Teaching approach
Learning Objectives	Introducing the idea of acids and bases. Using evidence to support conclusions. Potentially introducing young students to working in a lab with a 'real' purpose.
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Files and resources to view and download	Forensic Science Investigation/Lesson Download the lesson here File:Forensic Science Investigation - SC0004.doc
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