Forensic Science        2007-2008                                           Trimester I  - Fontbonne Hall Academy

Mrs. Marian Skabeikis                                                         Study Guide 1

 

Introduction to Forensic Science

Trimester I: Cycle 1

 

Text: Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Science, Richard Saferstein

 

New York State Learning Standards:

 

Standard 1: Analysis, Inquiry and Design: Students will use analysis, scientific inquiry and design, as appropriate, to pose questions, seek answers and develop solutions.

Standard 2: Information Systems: Students will access, generate, process and transfer information using appropriate technologies.

Standard 4: Science: Students will understand and apply scientific concepts, principles and theories … and recognize the historical development of ideas in science.

Standard 5: Technology: Students will apply technical knowledge and skills to design, construct, use and evaluate products and systems.

Standard 6: Interconnectedness: Common Themes: Students will understand the relationships and common themes that connect math, science and technology and apply the themes to these and other areas of learning.

Standard 7: Interdisciplinary Problem Solving: Students will apply knowledge and thinking skills to address real-life problems and make informed decisions.

 

Objectives:

Readings:

Assignments:

1. Definition and scope of Forensic Science.

Text, pp. 1-2

 

Class Activity: Forensics CD, Ch. 1,2, “Forensic Science Overview”, “Forensic

History”

Research:

Look in a local, city or national newspaper for a crime that might be solved by the work of a forensic scientist. Bring in your clipping for discussion.

2. The history and development of Forensic Science

“A Study in Scarlet”, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Part 1, Ch. 1 & 2.

A Study in Scarlet

Text, pp. 3 - 7

For Discussion:

The original reader of this tale can have had no preconception about the conventions of a detective story or the behavior of a detective, because no such thing was known. How does Holmes resemble the forensic scientist of today? How does he differ?

3. The organization and services provided by a crime laboratory.

Text, pp. 7 – 12

Follow-Up:

Career opportunities in forensics today and educational requirements: Careers in Forensic Science

4. The functions of a forensic scientist:

q       Analysis of Physical Evidence

q       Provision of expert testimony

q       Providing training in recognition, collection and preservation of physical evidence

q       Specialized services:

·        Pathology

·        Anthropology

·        Entomology

·        Psychiatry

·        Odontology

·        Engineering

Text: pp. 12-23

 

Case Reading: Jascalevich Murder Trial

Text, pp. 26 - 33

Review Questions: 

Text: pp, 23-25

 

Essay:

 

What are your reactions to the verdict of the jury in the Jascalevich trial?  Choose one point of view: the prosecution or the defense in framing your answer.

 

How does the work of Dr. Baden compare to the imaginary Conan Doyle hero Sherlock Holmes?

 

 

Laboratory:

Forensic Science

Observing the First Scene

Forensic Detectives

 

Quiz: First meeting,  Cycle 2
Grading Policy

Written examinations and tests: 40%

Laboratory exercises: 40%

Homework and other assignments: 20%