1
FORENSIC SCIENCE
Mrs. Sprouse
Plato High School
Course Description
Forensic Science is an introductory, lab-based course that will explore basic forensic
science techniques. The course will focus on the principles and techniques of the
physical and natural sciences as practiced and applied to the analysis and evaluation of
the crime scene, evidence, and law. Mock crime scenes will be investigated and real case
studies analyzed. Students will gain the knowledge and ability to problem-solve by
gathering information to define a problem clearly, test hypotheses, and evaluate the
results of investigations and synthesize all information to form a conclusion.
Materials
Textbook: Forensic Science: An Introduction Saferstein, Prentice Hall, 2008
Notebook, lined paper, graph paper, composition notebook, 24 + pack colored pencils,
calculator, 1 plain white T-Shirt, and access to digital camera (if possible)
* If you have access to a thumb drive please let me know. You will be assigned your
own folder on the server, but it is not accessible from our class laptops.
Expectations
Students will be expected to maintain a laboratory notebook for the duration of the
course, write formal lab reports, and present their case study findings to the class via
discussion board postings and Power Point presentations. Use of web resources will be
required daily.
Course Units and Topics
Unit
Introduction to Forensic Science
The Crime Scene
Physical Evidence
Analysis of Glass
Forensic Serology
Trace Evidence I: Hairs and Fibers
Trace Evidence II: Metals, Paint, Soil
Fingerprints
Careers in Forensic Science
Time
2 weeks
2 weeks
2 weeks
1 week
2 weeks
2 weeks
2 weeks
2 weeks
1 week
Chapter
1
2
3
4
8
10
11
14
19
2
Course Requirements
Attendance and Classwork
 Attendance in class is a very important factor for success in science classes. Be in
class as much as possible.
 Each student must be on time to for class. It is expected that you will be ready to
work when the bell rings. All tardies will be handled according to school policy.
 Students must bring required materials to class every day. During class
discussions, the student must be attentive and participate.
 When you are absent, it is your responsibility to check for the assignments
missed. Assignments can be accessed online at the class website. It is also your
responsibility to schedule a time to make-up any missed class activities.
 Each student is expected to obey all classroom and school rules at all times and to
treat everyone in the class with respect.
 Reading assignments will be handed out at the beginning of each unit. It is very
important that students keep up with these assignments. “Pop” quizzes can be
given on any reading assignment.
 All assignments should be handed in on time. Late work will be accepted at the
teacher’s discretion for 50% credit. Generally, late work will not be accepted
after graded work is returned to the class.
Laboratory
 During labs, the student must apply him/herself to the work. Read and follow all
directions carefully.
 Follow safety rules at all times.
 When working with a lab partner, each student must be equally responsible for the
work.
 All lab reports must be in correct format.
 Failure to follow lab or safety rules will result in disciplinary actions.
Notebook
 It is recommended that all students keep a notebook for this class.
 The notebook can be organized according to each individual’s preferences.
Special Assignments
 There will be several research projects and reports during this course.
Grading Procedure
 Your grade is based on the point system. Every graded paper will be scored with
the points earned out of the points possible.
 Assessment procedures include lab assignments, case study discussions, and
written assessments (tests, quizzes, unit analysis).
3
The teacher reserves the right to make adjustments in course and/or grading procedures
as needed.
Forensic science covers many topics, some of which are of mature content. Students
need to approach this course with a mature attitude. If any topics, movies, or pictures
make a student feel uncomfortable, please let me know so an alternative assignment can
be arranged.
Class website address: www.plato.k12.mo.us/teachers/dsprouse
Please refer to the class website for links to the assignment calendar, related sites for
units covered, discussion post site and testing site.
PLEASE SIGN AND RETURN BOTTOM PORTION OF THIS PAGE
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------I understand the requirements and expectations for this class. I also understand some of
the content will need to be approached in a mature manner, and if at any time I feel
uncomfortable, I will address the teacher with my concerns.
Parent Signature: ____________________________________ Date:______________
Student Signature: ___________________________________ Date: ______________
Course Title: _______________________________________ Hour: ______________