1. What is Forensic Science?
What is Forensic Science?
The use of scientific principles and methods in criminal justice, particularly when it comes to gathering, studying, and analyzing physical evidence.
Instructions (Part I): Carefully view the videos below to learn about CSI.
Forensic Science Specialties
Forensic Anthropology: Forensic anthropology is the scientific study of human remains to determine information about the deceased and cause of death.
Skeletal Analysis: Examine bones to determine various aspects of the individual’s identity including age, sex, ancestry, stature, and any signs of trauma or disease.
DNA Analysis: DNA samples are collected from the remains or potential relatives to identify individuals or establish familial relationships.
Odontology: Analyze teeth to establish the person’s age, dental history, and dental records that may aid in identification.
Taphonomy: The study of postmortem processes, including decomposition, burial conditions, and environmental factors that affect the preservation and appearance of remains.
Instructions (Part II): Carefully view the videos below to learn about Forensic Anthropologists.
Forensic Entomology: Forensic entomology is the scientific study of insects and other arthropods to gather evidence in legal investigations, particularly in cases involving human remains. Entomologist identify insects at various stages in their life cycle to estimate the postmortem interval (PMI), which is the time between when a person passed away and when their body is found.
Instructions (Part III): Carefully view the videos below to learn about Forensic Entomology.
Insect Life Cycles:
Insects go through various stages of development which are crucial in estimating PMI. By understanding succession, insects colonize a decomposing body in a predictable sequence. Entomologist analyze the species present and their developmental stages. With this information, they can estimate how long a body has been decomposing. View the image below.
Group Discussion:
Can you think of any other specialties for a forensic scientist?
What challenges do you think forensic anthropologist face?
What challenges do you think forensic entomologist face?
- How do you think Forensic Science will change in the future?
- Think about how technology could impact Forensic Science. What technology do you think would be the most impactful and why?