Objective
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand the basics of forensic science and its applications in solving crimes.
Materials and Prep
Materials:
- Magnifying glass
- White paper
- Pencil
- Black light
- Various small items for fingerprinting (e.g., glass, metal, plastic)
Prep: Familiarize yourself with the concept of forensic science and its importance in criminal investigations.
Activities
1. Fingerprint Analysis: Collect fingerprints from different surfaces using the materials provided. Use the magnifying glass to observe the details of each print.
2. Invisible Ink: Use the black light to reveal hidden messages written with invisible ink on white paper. Discuss the science behind invisible inks.
3. Crime Scene Investigation: Create a mini crime scene using small items and analyze it like a forensic scientist. Look for clues and evidence that can help solve the mystery.
Talking Points
- What is forensic science?
"Forensic science is like being a detective in real life. It uses science to solve crimes by collecting and analyzing evidence."
- Why are fingerprints important?
"Fingerprints are unique to each person, like a secret code that can help identify who was at a crime scene."
- How does invisible ink work?
"Invisible inks are made of substances that are only visible under certain conditions, like heat or UV light. They are often used for secret messages."
- What is the role of a forensic scientist in a crime investigation?
"Forensic scientists help gather evidence from crime scenes, analyze it in labs, and provide expert opinions to help solve crimes."