Forensic Science

In this unit, students will explore the field of forensic science and its role within the criminal justice system. Topics include the definition and scope of forensic science, careers within the field, and the ways scientific investigation is used to analyze crimes and solve cases. Students will examine how observation, critical thinking, and scientific reasoning are applied in forensic investigations.

In this unit, students will investigate the historical development of forensic science and the scientific breakthroughs that shaped modern investigative techniques. Topics include landmark cases, influential forensic scientists, and the evolution of forensic technologies. Students will analyze how advances in science and technology have improved the accuracy and reliability of criminal investigations.

In this unit, students will learn the procedures used to secure, document, and process crime scenes. Topics include crime-scene photography, sketching, measurement, evidence-collection techniques, chain of custody, and methods for preserving evidence integrity. Students will develop practical investigative skills while examining the importance of accuracy and attention to detail in forensic work.

In this unit, students will explore the various types of evidence commonly analyzed in forensic investigations. Topics include fingerprints, DNA analysis, blood spatter interpretation, toxicology, forensic entomology, time of death estimation, forensic anthropology, ballistics, and arson investigation. Students will examine how different forms of evidence are collected, processed, and interpreted to support criminal investigations.

In this unit, students will investigate the scientific methods and technologies used in modern forensic laboratories. Topics include microscopy, chemical analysis, digital imaging, DNA profiling, and evidence comparison techniques. Students will evaluate how laboratory analysis contributes to identifying suspects, reconstructing events, and supporting legal proceedings.

In this unit, students will apply forensic techniques to analyze and reconstruct criminal events. Through case studies and investigative activities, students use evidence to develop conclusions about how crimes occurred. Emphasis is placed on scientific reasoning, interpretation of evidence, and communication of findings.

In this unit, students will complete a culminating forensic investigation project in which they design and document an original crime scene scenario. Students create a written crime story and construct a detailed diorama representing the scene. Using proper forensic techniques, students will process and document evidence, analyze findings, and explain how the collected evidence could be used to solve the crime. Students will apply scientific investigation, creativity, problem-solving, and presentation skills throughout the project.