Course Syllabus
Forensics
Mr. LaChausse
Room 123
Office Hours
6th, 7th period, before & after school by appointment
Contact Information
Room Phone: 257-3483 Ext. 8123
E-mail: dlachausse@cattlv.wnyric.org
Course Description
This course will introduce students to the area of forensic science from a science
point of view. This is an upper-level science elective, meaning that students should
have completed regents level earth science, biology and either chemistry or physics.
This course is a combined lecture and lab, meaning that during the normal forensics
class, both lecture/class activities and laboratory activities will take place. A tentative list
of the topics covered are: the history & nature of forensic science, evidence & collection
techniques, soil and inorganic compound analysis, organic and inorganic chemical
analysis, microscope analysis or hair and fibers, paint chemistry, toxicology, fire,
explosives, arson, blood/body fluid evidence, DNA analysis, fingerprinting, firearms,
decay and composition, and voice analysis. This course will also address current topics
as they may occur during the school year.
Textbook and Other Required Materials
The required textbook for the course is Criminalistics: An Introduction To
Forensic Science, Seventh Edition by Saferstein. Students are expected to bring their
textbook to class everyday, unless otherwise instructed. Students are required to keep a
3-ring binder with a section for notes and a section for class handouts. Students are
strongly encouraged to keep a folder to store homework assignments and a planner to
write homework assignments and test/quiz dates in.
Class Methods/Strategies
This course will be taught with a focus on student inquiry and use of technology
in instruction and learning. Laboratory safety is a must!! Students will need to sign
and go over a safety contract with their parent(s) or guardian(s) in order to participate in
laboratory activities. Students will also be required to pass a safety quiz before
participating in their first laboratory activity.
Assessment
Progress in the course will be determined using the following assessment methods:
 Required reading and completion of homework problems.
 Pre-tests
 Multiple choice chapter exams
 Quizzes
 Midterm Exam
 A comprehensive final examination
Grading
10% Homework
5% Class Participation
20% Labs/Lab Write-ups
20% Quizzes
45% Tests/Long term projects
Academic Integrity
Any cheating or other act of academic dishonesty will be punished by an
automatic “F” on that academic work. Other sanctions may be applied as well. See the
student handbook for more information.
Student Expectations
Students are expected to come to class on time and be in their seats and ready
to work when the bell rings. Students are required to complete bellringer activities at the
beginning of class and turn in homework assignments if applicable. Students are
expected to be respectful to the teacher and other students. Misconduct and
horseplay will not be tolerated. It is my goal as a teacher to give every student a safe
and positive learning environment.
Changes in Syllabus
This syllabus and class schedule is tentative. Any changes that should arise will be
announced in class.
Tentative Class Calendar
.
Unit 1: History & overview of forensics
Unit 2: Crime scene
Unit 3: Physical evidence
Unit 4: Glass and soil
Unit 5: Organic analysis
Unit 6: Inorganic analysis
Unit 7: The microscope
Unit 8: Hairs, fibers and paint
Unit 9: Drugs
Unit 10: Forensic toxicology
Unit 11: Arson and explosion investigations
Unit 12: Serology
Unit 13: DNA
Unit 14: Fingerprints
Unit 15: Firearms & tool marks
Unit 16: Document & voice examination
Unit 17: Forensic science & the internet
Review for Final/Wrapup
September
September
October
October
November
November
December
December
January
January
February
March
March
April
April
May
May/June
June