5th Grade ALP
Growing a Community of Leaders
Highlights of the Advanced Forensics Course
Overview
Some skills that the students learned were in-depth observation, analyzing clothing fibers at a microscopic level, identifying mysterious powders (by use of presumptive tests looking at physical and chemical reactions), inspecting handwriting and determining pen type (by the process of chromatology), studying shoeprints to determine a suspect's height, identifying lip prints (cheiloscopy), analyzing hair samples (microscopic analysis), and examining fingerprints. We also learned about several careers involved in Forensic Sciences during the investigation. In the end, these forensic interns were able to conclude who was likely guilty and should be arrested and charged with the crime, who should be questioned further, and who should be released.
The Case
Culminating Event
Then, they were ready for their own case with all of the evidence given at once. They were given several clues and two boxes with several locks on them. Their new mission: use the clues to solve the case, crack the codes/locks, and get the stolen items from the box. Students worked in teams to solve the case! Several students mentioned this final activity as their favorite part of the entire class.
Questions to ask your child:
- What was your favorite aspect of the Forensics course? Why?
- Can you describe a time that challenged you to think creatively during this course?
- How did this class help you look at the world differently or provide you with another perspective?
- Can you describe to me how you worked as a team member?
- What was a challenge that was difficult for you and how did you overcome it?
- What was an interesting discovery you made during this unit? About forensics? A case you were trying to solve? About yourself? About others?
- What moment are you most proud of during this unit?