Introduction to Forensic Science (Grades 11-12)
In this 12 week course, students will learn the basics of forensic science. This introduction course will cover unique case studies throughout history, focusing on critically thinking about the criminal justice system & scientific analysis.
What's included
24 live meetings
24 in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. These assignments will be given during the class time, and students will be expected to work at their own pace to complete the rest of these assignments outside of class time and bring completed to the next course meeting.Projects
There are two bigger projects throughout the course, in which students will spend a little extra time than a typical homework assignment and which will require more attention, research and critical thinking than a typical homework assignment.Certificate of Completion
If the students complete the course, they will receive a certificate of completion. This certificate would mean the student is now ready to move forward to take Forensic Science 1, 2 and beyond.Class Experience
US Grade 11 - 12
This Introduction to Forensic Science course is the perfect way to introduce the main ideas of forensic science to any high school junior or senior. In this 12 week course, students will learn the basics of forensic science. This introduction course will cover the history of forensic science, crime scene processing, and death investigations (pathology and role of the Medical Examiner). The course is structured to meet twice per week, where students will be guided through a lesson, then they will have assignments to work on for the next class. There is a variety of lecture, discussion, virtual activities, and hands-on activities they will complete at home. I will teach utilizing my many best practices learned in my time teaching high school forensic science, so I am confident your student will love this class and be inspired to continue studying this interesting and interdisciplinary course. The students will interact through lecture, games, Peardeck slides, discussions, and assignments. The focus of the course will be to ask the question, "What is justice?" and "How do we know if justice has been served?" which engages the students to think deeply and critically about how our criminal justice system is constantly being revised to reflect the newer understandings and goals of our society.
Learning Goals
The students will be able to define "Forensic Science." The students will be able to explain major events that demonstrated an early understanding of forensics.The students will be able to identify types of evidence allowed into the court of law. The students will be able to identify the major laws that determine the admissibility of evidence into the court of law.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created CurriculumStandards
Aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)4 Units
24 Lessons
over 12 WeeksUnit 1: What is Forensic Science?
Lesson 1:
History of Forensic Science
Define forensics.
Be familiar with cultures and events that demonstrated an early understanding of forensics.
Understand how forensics has evolved as a field. 60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Locard's Exchange Principle
The first Crime Laboratory in the world and the principle that Forensic Science is based upon. This lesson will require students to complete a hands-on investigation at home. 60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Forensic Science & the Law
The roles of a forensic scientist
The law as it pertains to scientific evidence
The types of evidence allowed in the court of law
Fundamentals of the criminal justice system 60 mins online live lesson
Unit 2: Crime Scene Investigation
Lesson 4:
Crime Scene Processing
The Miranda rights
The steps to secure & lock down a scene 60 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
This course contains mature content, including discussions of death, death investigations, and case studies involving criminal activity and adult themes. Please note that this course may not be suitable for all audiences.
Pre-Requisites
Students should have experience in lower level high school courses, such as Biology and Chemistry. Forensic Science is an applied science, meaning, it builds upon previous scientific knowledge. The course features mature content.
Supply List
Each week, there will be printable resources, so a printer is highly recommended. All assignments will be given a virtual or printable option, so I recommend printing and completing your work in a three-ring binder for storage and organization. There will be one project where students will create a diorama of a crime scene, so a shoebox is necessary, and it is encouraged students use a variety of craft items, such as play-doh, little dolls, little furniture (or can be created out of cardboard, etc). All other assignments can be completed digitally.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
We will refer to the US Constitution, Bill of Rights, and major US cases through history.
https://australian.museum/learn/teachers/learning/virtual-autopsy/
“Nutshell Cases of Death: Crime Scene Investigation Project” https://americanart.si.edu/exhibitions/nutshells
Joined November, 2024
Teacher expertise and credentials
Massachusetts Teaching Certificate in Science
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Secondary Education from Springfield College
Bachelor's Degree in Biology/Biological Sciences from Springfield College
I have a Bachelors Degree in Biology and a Masters in Education from Springfield College. I have 13 years of experience teaching at the high school level, including Forensic Science. I have Forensic Science teacher training from Baypath College, as well as the University of New Haven. I have experience teaching in Massachusetts at the high school (grades 9-12) and at the community college level. I am currently an adjunct professor at Holyoke Community College and Springfield Technical Community College.Reviews
Live Group Course
$21
weekly or $250 for 24 classes2x per week, 12 weeks
60 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 15-18
3-12 learners per class
