CSI Investigation
In this project, we were given an unrealistic murder scenario, along with some investigative skills, and told to analyze the evidence and decide conclusively who did the murder. We were first introduced to passive and recessive genetic disorders. To represent this on a family tree, we were introduced to pedigrees. Also, we were taught to use different antibodies to match blood types, compare fingerprints, perform ink chromatography and use gel electrophoresis to perform DNA fingerprinting.
Content
Pedigree
A visual representation of a family tree, often used to trace genetic disorder through the bloodline and/or determine the probability of someone having a genetic disorder (which could result in a reduced sentence if proven that a disorder reduces a person's decision-making ability)
Fingerprinting
Comparing a suspect's fingerprints to those lifted at the crime scene, from a murder weapon, for example
Ink chromatography
Testing different pens and their inks to determine which pen wrote something, a threatening note, for example
DNA sequencing
Comparing a suspect's DNA to DNA found at the crime scene in the form of blood, for example
Blood typing
Determining a person's blood type by using various antibodies as indicators, and determining which blood samples match
Conclusion
In conclusion, this has been a quite unique and interesting project. With actual Marin County sheriffs coming in to teach us to lift prints, there was certainly some professional experience offered to us. This project revolved around Critical Thinking, and I can say that that I definitely did some, especially while making the large pedigree. Also, I can say that I demonstrated good character, because I never got frustrated with anyone, even the imaginary characters given with the assignment.
However, one thing I could have done better is be a more Conscientious Learner. I had to miss a few days of school over the course of this project, which isn't great, of course. Also, Collaboration was slightly lacking on my end, mostly considering the type of project this was.