Chapter 1- Introduction into Forensic Science
Study Guide
Warm ups?
1. Referring to the Casey Anthony trial involving a young mother accused of failing to
report her child missing and later found murdered, why do you think she was set free?
Do you agree with the verdict? Support your answer
2. Read the letter on page 18. What were your first impressions or thoughts?
P2.
P3.
1. What is Forensic Science?
2. List several areas of specialization.
3. What public misconceptions were placed on FS as a result of TV shows like
CSI, Criminal Minds, NCIS
P5-8
4. Briefly describe the contributions of Bertillon, Galton, Conan Doyle,
Landersteiner and Locard (Include Locard’s Principal)
P9.
5. Briefly explain the importance of DNA, Fingerprints and bullet/case
markings.
P11. Fill in the time line with important FS events.
1923-1930-1932-1972-1981
P14-19
6. Briefly explain the jobs for each unit (physical, biological, firearms,
document examiner, photography,toxicology, fingerprint, polygraph,
voiceprint, CSI, psychiatry, odontology, engineering, computer and digital
analysis and questioned document analysis)
P20.
7. What are the 3 avenues for solving crimes? Of these, which is most
reliable and why?
8. What was the outcome of Frye vs US?
Eyewitness testimony- Ronald Cotton , My Cousin Vinny
Expert Testimony-My Cousin Vinny