The Forensic Science class is designed to introduce students to the sciences and technologies used by law enforcement and our criminal justice system in criminal investigations. Students participating in this class will gain a greater understanding of science, technology, and deductive reasoning through applied applications of these disciplines in problem-solving and crime scene recreation activities.

Unit outlines: the following topics will be addressed in this course, with additional topics addressed when time permits.

• Introduction to Forensics

• Famous Forensic Scientists

• Forensic Fields (Careers)

• Crime & Punishment

• Crime scene (securing and processing)

• Fingerprinting

• Impression evidence

• Forgery

• Forensic Serology (blood)

• DNA evidence

• Forensic Entomology

• Arson investigation

• Hair and Fiber analysis

We study the methods of solving crimes, as well as some famous criminals. Although, this class is not meant to place an undue emphasis on violent crime, some units will involve the different aspects of violent crimes, such as sketching a crime scene with a mock victim, examining blood spatter to determine the angle and force of impact. No real human blood will be used in the course. Students are expected to be mature during all discussions. Since the course deals with violent crimes, it also deals with death. Students will encounter simulated crime scenes using mock body outlines, to practice crime scene investigation skills. We will complete case studies on famous forensic cases such as Ted Bundy, OJ Simpson, and Jack the Ripper. These are strictly fact based, real world examples, and focus on the forensics of the cases.