Questioned Documents
Course
Forensic Science
Unit XIII
Questioned
Documents
Essential
Question
Why is the field
of questioned
documents
important in
Forensic
Science?
TEKS
§130.295(c)
(2)(G)(H)
(3)(A–F)
(5)(C)(D)(G–J)
(6)(B)(C)(G)(H)
(7)(A)(B)(D)
Prior Student
Learning
 Safety &
Scientific
Method
 Crime Scene
Investigation
 Legal Systems
 Hair & Fibers
Estimated Time
7½ hours
Rationale
Document examination is a well-respected field of scientific study. Crimes
such as forgeries and counterfeiting are on the rise. As these increase so
does the need for the field of questioned documents. This field allows us to
analyze handwriting, forgeries, typescript documents, and counterfeits, which
makes it essential to forensic science.
Objectives
The student will be able to:
1. Determine what a questioned document is and identify examples of it.
2. Analyze handwriting and identify its individual characteristics.
3. Identify what FISH is and its importance.
4. Recognize different types of altered documents and the techniques
used to analyze them.
5. Apply knowledge that ink is a mixture and be able to demonstrate its
components.
6. Apply knowledge of forgeries to real life cases.
7. Differentiate between known and manufactured materials, such as
forgeries and counterfeits.
Engage
Do an Internet search for the following article: Ted Kaczynski: The
Unabomber by Ted Ottley. Use the article for a class discussion. Discuss the
role the letter that the Unabomber mailed to the New York Times played in
catching Ted Kaczynski. Use the Discussion Rubric for assessment.
Key Points
I. Questioned Document – any document about which some issue has
been raised or that is the subject of an investigation
II.
Document Examiners
A. Mostly examine handwriting to originate its source or its authenticity
B. Will also examine typed writings, computer printings, photocopies,
inks, papers, and forgeries, and decode altered and charred
documents
C. May need to use microscopes, photographs, chromatography, and
other lab examinations on the questioned documents
D. Many work in federal, local, and state crime labs, but they may also
work in private practices
III. Handwriting
A. General Information
1. Two different individuals’ handwriting cannot be identical
2. Since handwriting is associated with mechanical, physical, and
1
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
mental functions, it is almost impossible to reproduce exactly
3. Handwriting can be almost as individual as a person’s
fingerprint
B. Examining and Comparing
1. A positive comparison must be based on an ample number of
common characteristics between known and questioned
writings
2. Collecting a lot of exemplars (known writing) is critical in order to
make a comparison
3. Exemplars should contain some of the same words or
combinations of letters that are present in the questioned
document
4. Forensic Information System of Handwriting (FISH) database
a) If the document is a part of a high profile case or is
suspected to be written by a repeat offender, the document
may be scanned into the FISH database
b) This database is maintained by the U.S. Secret Service
c) It can provide a list of “hits” based on mathematical values
calculated from the scanned images, but a document
examiner makes the final confirmation or elimination
5. To determine whether the handwriting on the document is
authentic, the examiner will generally examine the following
twelve factors:
a) Average amount of space between words and letters
b) Relative height, width, and size of letters
(1) Height of the letters, including a comparison of the
height of uppercase to lowercase letters
(2) Width of the letters and the space between the letters
and the words
(3) Size of the letters relative to the available space
c) Line quality – observing if the lines are smooth, free-flowing,
or shaky and wavering
d) Connecting strokes – comparing the strokes between upper
and lower case letters, and the strokes between the letters
and the words
e) Beginning and ending strokes – observing how the writer
begins and ends words, numbers, and letters
f) Pen lifts and separations
(1) How the writer stops to begin new letters and words
(2) Forgeries may have lifts or separations in unusual
places, such as within a letter
g) Shading and pen pressure – differing amounts of pressure
used by the writer, that make lines light, dark, narrow, or
wide
h) Baseline habits – analyzing if the writer’s letters stay
straight or move up and down compared to the baseline
2
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
i) Slant – analyzing the writing slant: left, right or straight
j) Unusual letter formation – such as letters with tails or letters
written backwards
k) Flourishes or embellishments – any fancy letters, curls,
loops, circles, etc.
l) Letter characteristics
(1) Completeness of closed characters such as, o, e, and
a
(2) Dotting of i and j, and crossing of t
C. Factors that can affect handwriting samples
1. Types of writing instrument (pens, pencils, crayons, etc.)
2. Types of writing surface (paper, wall, napkin, etc.)
3. Underlining surface (smooth or rough)
4. Mood of the writer (happy, depressed, angry, etc.)
5. Age of the writer (undeveloped or shaky handwriting)
6. Writing speed (slow or quick)
7. Position of the writer (sitting or standing)
8. Position of the document (flat, vertical, or horizontal surface)
9. Environmental exposure (temperature, humidity, etc.)
10. Other factors
a) Consumption of alcohol and/or drugs
b) Injury and/or illness
IV. Typescript Comparisons
A. Typescript is the result of machine-created documents, such as
those created by computer printers, photocopiers, fax machines, and
typewriters
B. Defects, missing pieces, or scratches may help to identify the
machine where the document originated
1. Computer printers – identifying the kind of ink and toner can
reduce the number of suspected printers used
2. Photocopiers
a) The debris on the glass or the mechanical portions can form
distinctive patterns
b) These marks can change over time and may help date the
document
3. Fax machines have a header on each page known as the TTI
(transmitting terminal identifier) that helps identify the origin of
the fax
4. Typewriters
a) Wear and defects in the typeface, misalignment of
characters, and the ribbon can narrow down the search to
the original typewriter
b) The Haas Atlas is a catalog that is organized by typewriter
name and includes font, manufacturer information, serial
numbers, etc.
3
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
V.
Altered Documents
A. Documents are often altered after they have been prepared. This is
sometimes done to hide their original content or create a forgery
1. Additions
a) Adding content to an already prepared document
b) Infrared luminescence
(1) Emits infrared light when exposed to blue-green light
(2) Can be used to get results if a different ink is used
2. Erasures
a) One of the most common alterations of documents
b) A rubber eraser, sandpaper, razor blade, or knife may be
scratched against the paper’s surface in an attempt to
remove writing or type
c) This irritates the top fibers of the paper which are visible
under a microscope
3. Obliterations
a) A document may have parts that are blotted or smeared,
making the original unreadable
b) This is usually done with strong oxidizing agents to make
the ink become colorless
c) This is not visible to the naked eye, but can be seen with
microscopes, or ultraviolet or infrared lighting
4. Charred Documents
a) Sometimes documents are accidently or purposely charred
in a fire
b) Infrared photography or reflecting light at different angles
can sometimes reveal the document’s contents
VI. Other Document Challenges
A. Indentations
1. Most of the time an indented impression is left on a paper below
the primary writing
2. The best way to read the impression is by using an ESDA
(electrostatic detection apparatus)
a) This charges the paper
b) Pouring toner powder over the charged paper develops the
images on the indented paper
B. Paper
1. To identify paper, scientists may use the following
characteristics
a) Color
b) Density
c) Watermarks
d) Dyes or bleaches
e) Fluorescence under UV light
4
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
f) Raw material the paper is made from
g) Thickness
C. Ink
1. Considered a mixture, so it can be broken down into the
different chemical components using the following lab tests
a) Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC)
b) A visible microspectrophotometer
2. Studying the chemical composition can sometimes determine
a) If a certain pen was used on a questioned document
b) How long the ink has been on the paper
D. Physical/Fracture Match of separated documents – usually these
documents are cut or torn and can be linked to the original source
VII. Examples of Questioned Documents
A. Checks
B. Licenses and Certificates
C. Passports
D. (Counterfeit) Money
E. Receipts
F. Lottery tickets
G. Historical documents
H. Ransom and suicide notes
VIII. Forgery
A. An item prepared with the intent to deceive
B. Types
1. Blind forgery – made without a model of the signature or the
writing being forged
2. Simulated forgery – one made by copying a genuine signature
3. Traced forgery – one made by tracing a genuine signature
IX. Counterfeit
A. Made in exact imitation of something important or valuable with the
intention of deceit
B. Columbia
1. The leading manufacturer of counterfeit U.S. currency
2. This counterfeit production supports their growing drug cartel
C. The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing has established some
anti-counterfeiting security features including
1. Watermarks – distinct images or designs put into paper during
the paper-making process
2. Color-shifting inks – ink that looks like different colors depending
on the angle at which they are viewed (i.e., the number 50 on a
$50 bill looks copper from one angle and green from another)
3. Fine-line printing and microprinting – makes it difficult to achieve
a high quality reproduction with copying or scanning
5
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
4. Enlarged, off-center portraits – provide room for the watermark
and reduce wear on the portrait caused by folding
5. Poor vision feature – the larger number on the back of bills is to
help aid people with poor vision
6. Denomination-specific security thread
a) UV fluorescent ribbon running through the bill
b) Guards against reprinting and bleaching
D. Counterfeit detection pen – a security feature that businesses use to
help eliminate receiving counterfeit bills
1. The pen contains iodine and when it is used on a counterfeit bill
it produces a blue-black color
2. When used on an authentic bill, it produces a pale yellow color
that fades over time
Activities
1. Characteristics of Handwriting Lab. Have each student write a sample
paragraph in his or her own handwriting and then analyze it using the
twelve characteristics document examiners use in the field. Have each
student use a Characteristics of Handwriting Lab, a Characteristics Table
handout, magnifying glass, pen, and lined paper. See the lab handouts for
more details. Use the Individual Work Rubric for assessment.
2. Forgery Handwriting Lab. Have students complete this lab with a partner.
Have each student write his or her own authentic signature and then try to
create a blind, a traced, and a simulated forgery of their partner’s. Have the
partners try to determine the forgeries in another group’s signatures. Each
student will need a Forgery Handwriting Lab handout, a magnifying glass,
and a black pen. Each group will need a pair of scissors and the
Signatures handout. Use the Individual Work Rubric for assessment.
3. Ink Chromatography Lab. Have students complete this lab in groups. Have
the groups test known black markers using chromatography. Then have
them test an unknown sample on a ransom note and compare it to the
known samples to solve the case. You will need 4 different black markers
for this lab. Write the ransom note on paper with one of the markers. The
ransom note wording and other details are on the lab handouts (Note: write
one ransom note for each class that participates in the lab). Each group will
need the Ink Chromatography Lab handout, Ink Chromatography Data
handout, filter paper, water, 5 beakers or cups, scissors, pencils, ruler, and
a strip from the ransom note. You can share the 4 different black markers
as a class or have 4 per group. See the lab handouts for more details. Use
the Individual Work Rubric for assessment.
4. Documents and Forgery Assignment. Have students complete this
assignment in groups. Have the groups research information online and/or
in books; put their research in a computer-based presentation; and present
6
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
it to the class. Each group will need the Documents and Forgery
Assignment handout, access to the Internet, and books. Use the Research
Rubric and the Presentation Rubric for assessment.
Note: All labs are guided and can vary from class to class. Assess them
based on accuracy, details, and questions answered based on their results.
This should be done at the teacher’s discretion.
Assessments
Questioned Documents Exam and Key
Discussion Rubric
Individual Work Rubric
Presentation Rubric
Research Rubric
Writing Rubric
Materials
Questioned Documents computer-based presentation
Characteristics of Handwriting Lab
– Characteristics of Handwriting lab handout
– Characteristics Table handout
– Magnifying Glasses
– Black Pens
– Lined Notebook Paper
Forgery Handwriting Lab
– Forgery Handwriting lab handout
– Signatures handout (one per group)
– Scissors (one per group)
Magnifying Glasses
Black ink pen
Ink Chromatography Lab
– Ink Chromatography Lab handout
– Ink Chromatography Data handout
– Filter paper (can be coffee filters, paper towels or chromatography
paper)
– Water
– Beakers or cups
– Pencils
– Rulers
– Ransom Note (written by teacher; wording is provided on the handout)
– 4 different black markers
Documents and Forgery Assignment
– Documents and Forgery Assignment handout
– The Internet and/or books
– Computer-based presentation software
Posters and markers
7
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
Resources
American Society of Questioned Document Examiners www.asqde.org
Deslich, Barbara, and John Funkhouser. Forensic Science for High School.
Dubuque, IA: Kendall/Hunt, 2006.
Saferstein, Richard. Forensic Science: An Introduction. Upper Saddle River,
NJ: Prentice Hall, 2008.
Texas Education Agency, Forensic Certification Training: Module 9, Sam
Houston State University
Do an Internet search for the following: Ted Kaczynski: The Unabomber by
Ted Ottley
Accommodations for Learning Differences
For reinforcement, students will make a poster of the 12 different factors that
document examiners use to analyze handwriting. They should include pictorial
examples. Use the Individual Work Rubric for assessment.
For enrichment, students will research and write a report over the 2001
anthrax letters attacks. Use the Research Rubric and the Writing Rubric for
assessment.
State Education Standards
Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Career and Technical Education
§130.295. Forensic Science (One Credit).
(2)
The student uses scientific methods and equipment during
laboratory and field investigations. The student is expected to:
(G)
analyze, evaluate, make inferences, and predict trends
from data; and
(H)
communicate valid conclusions supported by the data
through methods such as lab reports, labeled drawings,
graphic organizers, journals, summaries, oral reports, and
technology-based reports.
(3)
The student uses critical thinking, scientific reasoning, and
problem solving to make informed decisions within and outside
the classroom. The student is expected to:
(A)
in all fields of science, analyze, evaluate, and critique
scientific explanations by using empirical evidence,
logical reasoning, and experimental and observational
testing, including examining all sides of scientific
evidence of those scientific explanations, so as to
encourage critical thinking by the student;
(B)
communicate and apply scientific information extracted
from various sources such as current events, news
reports, published journal articles, and marketing
materials;
(C)
draw inferences based on data related to promotional
8
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
materials for products and services;
evaluate the impact of scientific research on society and
the environment;
(E)
evaluate models according to their limitations in
representing biological objects or events; and
(F)
research and describe the history of science and
contributions of scientists.
The student recognizes the procedures of evidence collection
while maintaining the integrity of a crime scene. The student is
expected to:
(C)
conduct a systematic search of a simulated crime scene
for physical evidence following crime scene protocol;
(D)
apply knowledge of the elements of criminal law that
guide search and seizure of persons, property, and
evidence;
(G)
outline the chain of custody procedure for evidence
discovered in a crime scene;
(H)
demonstrate proper techniques for collecting and
packaging physical evidence found at a crime scene;
(I)
explain the functions of national databases available to
forensic scientists; and
(J)
collect and preserve physical evidence from a simulated
crime scene.
The student analyzes the evidence collected from a crime scene
using scientific methods. The student is expected to:
(B)
distinguish between physical and chemical properties of
matter using the periodic table;
(C)
determine the elements within a compound or mixture;
(G)
identify the light sources used in forensic science such as
ultraviolet light;
(H)
explain the examination of trace evidence using
instruments such as a spectrophotometer, stereoscope,
electron microscope, and compound microscope;
The student recognizes the methods to process and analyze
trace evidence commonly found in a crime scene. The student is
expected to:
(A)
perform continuous and light emissions laboratory
procedures to identify trace evidence;
(B)
process trace evidence such as soil, grass, glass, blood,
fibers, and hair collected in a simulated crime scene;
(D)
differentiate between natural and manufactured fibers.
(D)
(5)
(6)
(7)
College and Career Readiness Standards
Science Standards
III. Foundation Skills: Scientific Applications of Communication
D. Research skills/information literacy
9
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
1. Use search engines, databases, and other digital electronic tools
effectively to locate information.
10
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
Name________________________________
Date__________________________
Questioned Documents Exam
True/False
1. _____ Two people can have identical handwriting.
2. _____ The mood of a writer can affect his or her handwriting.
3. _____ Consumption of alcohol or drugs cannot affect handwriting.
4. _____ Charred documents are always caught on fire maliciously.
5. _____ Ink is considered a mixture.
6. _____ Passports are not an example of a possible questioned document.
7. _____ Defects cannot help to identify the machine a document was originated on.
Multiple Choice
8.
_____ Document examiners can examine the following:
a. Handwriting samples
b. Typescripts
c. Forgeries
d. All of the above
9. _____ Exemplar writings are
a. Unknown writing samples
b. Suspect’s writing sample
c. Known writing samples
d. Victim’s writing sample
10. _____ What does FISH stand for?
a. Forensic Identification System of Handwriting
b. Forensic Information System of Handwriting
c. Forensic Identification Series of Handwriting
d. Forensic Information Series of Handwriting
11. _____ When analyzing handwriting how many factors do document examiners use?
a. 13
b. 11
c. 9
d. 12
12. _____ What parts of a computer printer may help identify it as the origin of a document?
a. Toner
b. Ink
c. Neither a or b
d. Both a and b
11
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
13. _____ What is the header called at the top of a faxed document that can help determine its
origin?
a. ITT
b. TTI
c. OTT
d. TTO
14. _____ The __________ Atlas is a catalog of very useful information for typewriters.
a. Haas
b. Bass
c. Hast
d. Bast
15. _____ Adding content to an already prepared document is what type of altered document?
a. Addition
b. Erasure
c. Obliteration
d. Charred
16. _____ Which of the following is the most common form of altered document?
a. Addition
b. Erasure
c. Obliteration
d. Charred
17. _____ This type of altered document uses a strong oxidizing agent to make the ink colorless.
a. Addition
b. Erasure
c. Obliteration
d. Charred
18. _____ Which of the following is the best way to develop an indented impression on paper?
a. UV light
b. Rubbing a pencil over it
c. ESDA
d. Infrared luminescence
19. _____ Which of the following does not help scientists determine the type of paper used?
a. Watermarks
b. Where it was bought
c. Density
d. Color
20. _____ Which of the following are examples of questioned documents?
a. Receipts
b. Counterfeit money
c. Historical documents
d. All of the above
12
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
21. _____ Which of the following is considered the biggest manufacturer of counterfeit U.S.
currency?
a. Mexico
b. Columbia
c. Canada
d. U.S.
22. _____ Who put forth anti-counterfeit security features?
a. U.S. Department of Treasury
b. Supreme Court
c. U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing
d. Federal Bureau of Investigations
23. _____ What is the purpose behind having large, off-center portraits on bills?
a. Make room for the watermark
b. Prevent wear from folding
c. Both a and b
d. Neither a and b
24. _____ When a counterfeit detection pen is used on an authentic bill, what color does it turn?
a. Pale blue
b. Pale yellow
c. Blue-black
d. Pale pink
Matching
25. _____Questioned document
a. An item prepared with the intent to deceive
26. _____Forgery
b. A document about which some issue has been raised
27. _____Counterfeit
c. Machine-created documents
28. _____Infrared luminescence
d. Exposure to green-blue light
29. _____Typescripts
e. An exact imitation of something important for deception
Match the following characteristics with their description
30. _____Spacing of words and letters a. Smooth or shaky lines
31. _____Line quality
b. May be in unusual places in forgeries
32. _____Pen lifts and separations
c. The average amount of space between words and letters
33. _____Letter characteristics
d. Fancy loops, curls, letters, etc.
34. _____Flourishes/embellishments
e. How i’s are dotted and t’s are crossed
Short Answer
35. Give one reason why you believe questioned documents are important in the field of forensics.
13
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
Questioned Documents Exam Key
1. F
2. T
3. F
4. F
5. T
6. F
7. F
8. D
9. C
10. B
11. D
12. D
13. B
14. A
15. A
16. B
17. C
18. C
19. B
20. D
21. B
22. C
23. C
24. B
25. B
26. A
27. E
28. D
29. C
30. C
31. A
32. B
33. E
34. D
35. Answers may vary by student
14
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
Name: _____________________________________ Date: ______________________
Characteristics of Handwriting Lab
Objective
To analyze your own handwriting using the Characteristics Table, similar to what examiners use
in the field.
Materials
 Blue or Black Pen
 The 12 characteristics from your Questioned Documents computer-based presentation notes
 A sheet of lined notebook paper
 Magnifying glass
 Characteristics Table Handout
Procedure
1. Write the following paragraph in cursive on your sheet of lined notebook paper. Do not try to
disguise your writing. Write like you normally would in cursive.
At 3:57 p.m. detectives responded to an attempted murder at 1234 Elm Street. Upon
entering the residence, they noticed a broken glass sliding door. In the residence, they
noticed blood spatter. Eventually, they find out that the blood samples came from two
different individuals. Eyewitnesses describe a tall, Caucasian man fleeing the scene in a
white unmarked van. He was seen wearing blue coveralls and white sneakers. The
detectives continued to process the scene and analyze all of the important evidence to help
make their case.
2. Using the magnifying glass examine the paragraph that you just wrote.
3. Using your notes about the 12 characteristics, analyze your own handwriting. Fill out the
Characteristics Table handout.
4. After you complete the Characteristics Table handout, compare your handwriting with
another student’s sample. With your partner, discuss how each of your handwritings is
unique to you.
5. Write a conclusion on the back of the Characteristics Table handout describing what you
learned in this lab about handwriting and the 12 characteristics. It must be at least 6
sentences.
15
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
1. Name: ________________________________________ Date: ___________________
Characteristics Table
Characteristic
Observation while analyzing your own Handwriting
1. Spacing of words and letters
2. Relative height, width, and size of
letters
3. Line quality
4. Connecting strokes
5. Beginning and ending strokes
6. Pen lifts and separations
7. Shading and pen pressure
8. Baseline habits
9. Slant
10. Unusual letter formation
11. Flourishes or embellishments
12. Letter characteristics
16
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
Name: _____________________________________ Date: ______________________
Forgery Handwriting Lab
Objective
To analyze genuine and forged signatures, to identify the differences between them, and to
decide which is the traced, the simulated, and the blind forgery.
Materials
 Scissors (one pair per group)
 Magnifying Glass
 Black Ink Pen
 Signatures Handout (one per group)
Procedure
1. Partner with another student. Determine who will be Person 1 and who will be Person 2. Cut
out all of the boxes on the Signatures handout. Each of you should have 5 boxes (Person 1
should have Authentic Signature box 1, and box 1a, 1b, 1c, and 1d, and Person 2 should
have Authentic Signature box 2, and box 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d).
2. Using your ink pens, sign your names in the appropriate authentic signature box. This will
be the known for the lab. Choose another one of the boxes for your number and sign there
as well. It does not matter which one of the other 4 boxes (a, b, c, or d) that you choose, but
do not tell or show your partner (or anyone else) your selection at this time.
3. After both of you have signed your boxes, exchange all of your remaining boxes (a, b, c, or
d) with your partner. Without looking at your partner’s signature try to use your own
handwriting to sign your partner’s name in one of the boxes. This is called a blind forgery.
4. At this point, each of you should only have 2 boxes remaining without writing. Choose one
of those boxes. Place your partner’s authentic signature box under it. Then try to trace your
partner’s signature. This is called a traced forgery.
5. In the last box, try to replicate your partner’s signature while looking at his or her authentic
signature. Try to copy it as exactly as possible. This is called a simulated forgery.
6. Only Person 1’s name should be signed in Authentic Signature box 1, and box 1a, 1b, 1c,
and 1d. Only Person 2’s name should be signed in Authentic Signature box 2, and box 2a,
2b, 2c, and 2d.
7. After you and your partner are finished, switch all of your boxes with another group of
partners.
8. After you receive another group’s boxes, as partners attempt to determine which of the
boxes (a, b, c, or d) is the blind forgery, the traced forgery, the simulated forgery, and the
authentic signature.
17
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
9. Fill out the data table below with your results. In the Authentic Signature spot write the
signee’s name.
Data Table
Authentic
Signature
Box A
Box B
Box C
Box D
Person 1
Person 2
10. After you and your partner believe you have correctly guessed the results of the other
group’s signatures, go to that group and see if your data table is correct.
Questions
1. Were the guesses in your data table correct about the other group’s signatures?
YES or NO (circle one)
EXPLAIN:
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
2. Was it hard to determine the differences between the forgeries?
YES or NO (circle one)
EXPLAIN:
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
3. Write a conclusion below (at least 6 sentences long) about what you have learned regarding
forgeries and signatures in this lab.
18
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
Signatures Handout
Cut apart these boxes before starting signatures.
Person 1 Authentic Signature
1a
1b
1c
1d
Person 2 Authentic Signature
2a
2b
2c
2d
19
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
Name: _____________________________________ Date: _____________________
Ink Chromatography Lab
Objective
 To perform chromatography in order to separate ink mixtures into their separate pigments
 To compare known inks to the unknown sample and make a match
Introduction
John Johnson awakes to find his wife missing and a ransom note. Mr. Johnson is the CEO of a
financial firm and was recently awarded a big bonus. This isn’t common knowledge, which is
why the police officers have narrowed the suspects down to 4 people that work with Mr.
Johnson. They need your help to identify the suspect immediately and get Mrs. Johnson back
safe and sound. The following is what the ransom note said. You will need to obtain a section of
the actual note from your teacher to perform the chromatography.
Mr. Johnson, if you ever want to see your wife alive again you will do the following:
1. Withdraw $350,000 from your bank account at the branch on Central Avenue
2. Deposit $250,000 into the Cayman Account #456987
3. Put the remaining $100,000 in an untraceable briefcase and leave it under the
slide at the playground at Sherlock Elementary on Watson Drive
You have until 7pm tomorrow.
Materials
 4 different black markers
 5 beakers or cups
 Filter paper (coffee filters, paper towels, or chromatography paper)
 Water
 Scissors
 Pencils
 Ruler
 Strip from the ransom note
 Ink Chromatography Data handout
Procedure
1. Measure the height of your beaker or cup. Cut a piece of filter paper about ½-inch wide and
½-inch longer than the height of your beaker or cup (for example, if the beaker is 6 inches
tall, then your paper should be 6 ½ inches tall).
2. Pour about 10 ml of water into the bottom of your beaker or cup.
20
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
3. Measure about 1.5 cm up from the bottom of the filter paper and make a line across it in
PENCIL. Pick one of the four markers and make a dot with it in the middle of the line. Label
the top of the filter paper with the brand of marker in PENCIL. See the example below:
Marker 1
1.5 cm from the bottom
4. Lower the filter paper into the beaker or cup with the water. Important: make sure the dot of
color is above the water. Only the filter paper below the dot will touch the water. Stand the
filter paper up in the beaker or cup and either hang it by pushing a pencil through the top or
fold the top over the edge of the beaker or cup to hold it in place.
Marker 1
5. The water will immediately start moving up the filter paper. Just leave the filter paper there
and repeat steps 1 – 4 for the other 3 markers.
6. Leave the filter paper in the beaker or cup for 3 – 5 minutes. When you take the paper out
immediately make a line in PENCIL at the highest point where the water traveled.
7. As you are waiting for the filter papers to dry, obtain your strip of the ransom note from your
teacher. Place it in a beaker with water like you did with the 4 strips of filter paper. But do
not make a dot since there is writing on it already. Try to keep any writing above the water
line. Allow it sit in the water about 3 minutes. Then take it out and draw a line across the
21
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
highest water point as you did with the others strips. While you are waiting for it to dry,
complete the Ink Chromatography Data handout.
8. Fill out the data and answer the conclusion questions. Attach your filter papers to your Data
handout and turn them in when you are finished.
Conclusion
Answer the following after you have finished your data:
1. Did any of your markers have the same results? Explain why you think this is.
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
2. What do you think is the purpose of the water in this experiment?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
3. Do you think the chromatography results could be enough evidence alone to convict
someone of a crime? Explain your answer.
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
4. What are some other mixtures that you think you could use a chromatography lab on? Give
at least 2 examples.
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
22
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
5. According to your results, which type of marker was used to write the ransom note?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
6. In about 5 sentences write a summary of what you learned in this lab and how
chromatography could be useful in the field of forensic science.
23
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ________________________________
Ink Chromatography Data
The chromatography results on your filter paper should have bands of different colors. Each color represents a different
pigment in the marker mixture. Fill out the following table with your results. The pigment colors should go in order starting
from the bottom (for example, the color closest to the bottom of the paper is pigment #1). The distance measured for the
pigments is from the start to finish for that specific color. There is space for 4 different pigments. Only fill out all 4 if you
had 4 different colors.
Marker 1:_____________
Marker 2:_____________
Marker 3:_____________
Marker 4:_____________
Ransom Note
# of Pigments:_________
# of Pigments:_________
# of Pigments:_________
# of Pigments:_________
# of Pigments:_________
Water distance
traveled:____________
Water distance
traveled:____________
Water distance
traveled:____________
Water distance
traveled:____________
Water distance
traveled:____________
Pigment #1:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #1:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #1:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #1:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #1:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #2:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #2:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #2:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #2:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #2:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #3:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #3:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #3:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #3:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #3:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #4:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #4:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #4:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #4:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
Pigment #4:
Color: ______________
Distance
Traveled: ____________
24
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
Documents and Forgery Assignment
You will work in five groups on this assignment.
The groups will have the following tasks (see list below). You must research the
information on the Internet and/or in books; put the information in a computer-based
presentation to present in class; and include enough information on each part to receive
adequate credit.
Group A:
 Summarize the case of the Hitler Diaries
 Summarize the work of the famous forger, Thomas Chatterton
 Analyze the role of document examination in the Lindbergh kidnapping case
Group B:
 Summarize the case of the Howard Hughes forgery
 Summarize the work of the famous forger, George Psalmanazar
 Analyze the role of document examination in the Weinberger kidnapping case
Group C:
 Summarize the case of the Mormon and Freemason forgeries
 Summarize the work of the famous forger, John Payne Collier
 Analyze the role of document examination in the Anthrax letters case
Group D:
 Summarize the case of the Lord Byron forgeries
 Summarize the work of the famous forger, Alexander Howland Smith
 Analyze the role of document examination in the Washington sniper letters case
Group E:
 Summarize the case of the Shakespeare forgeries
 Summarize the work of the famous forger, Thomas James Wise
 Analyze the role of document examination in the JonBenét Ramsey letter case
25
Copyright © Texas Education Agency 2011. All rights reserved
Name_______________________________________
Date_______________________________
Discussion Rubric
Objectives
4 pts.
Excellent
3 pts.
Good
2 pts. Needs Some
Improvement
1 pt. Needs Much
Improvement
N/A
Pts.
Participates in group discussion
Encourages others to join the
conversation
Keeps the discussion progressing
to achieve goals
Shares thoughts actively while
offering helpful recommendations to
others
Gives credit to others for their ideas
Respects the opinions of others
Involves others by asking questions
or requesting input
Expresses thoughts and ideas
clearly and effectively
Total Points (32 pts.)
Comments:
26
Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.
Name______________________________________
Date_______________________________________
Individual Work Rubric
4 pts.
Excellent
Objectives
3 pts.
Good
2 pts. Needs Some
Improvement
1 pt. Needs Much
Improvement
N/A
Pts.
Follows directions
Student completed the work as directed,
following the directions given, in order and to the
level of quality indicated
Time management
Student used time wisely and remained on task
100% of the time
Organization
Student kept notes and materials in a neat,
legible, and organized manner. Information was
readily retrieved
Evidence of learning
Student documented information in his or her
own words and can accurately answer questions
related to the information retrieved
*Research/Gathering information (if relevant)
Student used a variety of methods and sources
to gather information. Student took notes while
gathering information
Total Points (20 pts.)
Comments:
27
Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.
Name:____________________________________
Date:_____________________________
Presentation Rubric
4 pts.
Excellent
Objectives
3 pts.
Good
2 pts. Needs
Some
Improvement
1 pt. Needs
Much
Improvement
N/A
Pts.
Topic/Content
 Topic discussed completely and in-depth
 Includes properly cited sources (if used)
Creativity/Neatness
 Integrates a variety of multimedia
effects to create a professional
presentation (transition and graphics)
or appropriate visual aid used
 Title slide, table of contents,
bibliography are included, using
acceptable format
Mechanics
 Grammar, spelling, punctuation, and
capitalization are correct
 Image and font size are legible to the
entire audience
Oral Presentation
 Communicates with enthusiasm and eye
contact
 Voice delivery and projection are
dynamic and audible
Audience Interaction
 Presentation holds audience’s attention
and relates a clear message
 Clearly and effectively communicates the
content throughout the presentation
Total Points (20 pts.)
Comments:
28
Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.
Name______________________________________
Date_______________________________________
Research Rubric
4 pts.
Excellent
Objectives
3 pts.
Good
2 pts. Needs Some
Improvement
1 pt. Needs Much
Improvement
N/A
Pts.
Question/goal
Student identified and communicated a question
or goal of the research
Research/Gathering information (if relevant)
Student used a variety of methods and sources
to gather information. Student took notes while
gathering information
Conclusion/Summary
Student drew insightful conclusions and
observations from the information gathered.
Information is organized in a logical manner
Communication
Student communicated the information gathered
and summary or conclusions persuasively.
Student demonstrated skill in the use of media
used to communicate the results of research
Reflection
Student reflected on the importance of the
research and its potential application
Total Points (20 pts.)
Comments:
29
Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.
Name:____________________________________
Date:_____________________________
Writing Rubric
4 pts.
Excellent
Objectives
3 pts.
Good
2 pts. Needs Some
Improvement
1 pt. Needs Much
Improvement
N/A
Pts.
The writing has all required parts from
introduction to conclusion in smooth
transition.
The writing is interesting, supportive,
and complete.
The writing demonstrates that the
writer comprehends the writing
process.
Accurate spelling, grammar, and
punctuation
The content of paragraphs
emphasizes appropriate points.
The writer shows an understanding of
sentence structure, paragraphing, and
punctuation.
All sources and references are clearly
and accurately documented.
Total Points (28 pts.)
Comments:
30
Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.