SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
PROJECT ADVANCE
Forensic Science
Ms. Taylor
Clarkstown South
High School
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND PREREQUISITE SKILLS:
Scientific methods specifically relevant to crime detection and analysis will be presented.
Emphasis is placed upon understanding the science behind the techniques used in evaluating
physical evidence. Topics included are blood analysis, organic and inorganic evidence analysis,
microscopic investigations, hair analysis, DNA, drug chemistry and toxicology, fiber comparisons,
paints, glass compositions and fragmentation, fingerprints, soil comparisons, and arson nvestigations,
among others.
LEARNING GOALS:
This will be accomplished by providing a rational basis for interpreting the scientific analysis of
forensic evidence and through occasional relevant case studies. Laboratory exercises will include
techniques commonly employed in forensic investigations.
LECTURES:
The material covered in lecture will be illustrative rather than exhaustive. You should read the
material in the text assigned before the lecture. In lecture, alternate ways of understanding the
material will often be presented. The examinations, however, will cover both the assigned text and
lecture materials (whether or not they are specifically covered in lecture). Plenty of help is available
to answer questions and provide assistance with problems. An approximate schedule of class lecture
topics and the assigned text is included with this syllabus (please note that it is only an approximate
schedule).
GRADING AND EXAMINATIONS for Each Quarter (2 Quarters in a Semester)
Tests/Labs
Quizzes/Presentations
Projects/Participation
HW/Classwork/Case Study Reports
50%
25%
15%
10%
**THE FINAL EXAM IS 20% OF YOUR OVERALL SEMESTER GRADE
MAKE UP WORK IS COMPLETED DURING OFF PERIODS OR
AFTERSCHOOL…THE MAKE UP EXAMS CAN BE DIFFERENT THAN THE
CLASS EXAM. YOU HAVE TO MAKE UP THE WORK WITHIN THE WEEK OF
YOUR RETURN TO SCHOOL
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EXPECTATIONS FOR THE COLLEGE FORENSICS CLASS:
1. ALL WORK must be handed in by the deadline given by the teacher. Any Late work (Excluding
projects), due to unexcused absences, WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. ANY OTHER LATE WORK,
WILL BE GIVEN ONLY A MAXIMUM OF HALF CREDIT. ALL LATE WORK, due to
EXCUSED ABSENCES, MUST BE HANDED IN WITHIN A WEEK FROM THE DUE DATE.
2. Participation is a vital part of your grade. Participation includes punctuality, engagement in
class activities (which does not include using your cell phone or doing work from other
classes), and appropriate behavior. Coming to class late without an written pass takes points
from your participation grade. If you are not here, you cannot be participating.
****YOU CAN CHECK YOUR GRADES AT ANYTIME ON THE WEBSITE:
www.JupiterGrades.com ; passwords are given out in class
-IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO CHECK YOUR GRADES EITHER ONLINE OR
DURING AFTERSCHOOL HELP. PLEASE DO NOT DISCUSS YOUR GRADE WITH ME
DURING CLASS TIME BECAUSE OF TIME CONSTRAINTS AND CONFIDENTIALITY
REASONS.
-IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO HAND IN WORK AT THE APPOINTED DEADLINE.
-MAKE SURE ALL WORK HAS YOUR NAME ON IT-I AM NOT ABLE TO GIVE CREDIT
FOR UN-NAMED WORK
**The gradebook is updated, periodically, when work is graded. It TAKES TIME to grade and
enter the grades ONCE the work is handed in. The dates in the gradebook are the dates the
work was collected or started (like a lab). I can’t account for work that I have not graded or
entered yet.
\
HANDING IN ASSIGNMENTS-(**ANY WORK SHOULD BE HANDED IN DIRECTLY TO THE
TEACHER)
1. ON-TIME WORK—is usually collected by table and one person hands it directly to the
teacher
2. LATE OR ABSENT WORK-- NEEDS TO BE DATED AS TO TIME OF ABSENCE(S)
AND DUE DATES. PLEASE GIVE LATE OR ABSENT WORK DIRECTLY TO
TEACHER AND FILL OUT THE FORM TO DOCUMENT THE TURN IN. ALL
LATE OR ABSENT WORK IS PLACED IN A FOLDER AND WILL BE GRADED
AFTER ON TIME WORK IS GRADED.
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Procedure
Class meets one period daily. Labs and group activities are usually done once per week depending on the
workload and pacing of each topic.
Laboratory and case study requirements
We will be performing labs and case study investigations that will require write-ups and further
research. Procedures for each assignment will be explained in class. Successful completion of each
and every activity is a requirement for completion of the course. Access to the library and computer
labs will be done at first with teacher assistance to help with resource tools, then on your own.
Access to the S.U. library and database are also available.
College Credit
Since this is a Syracuse University sponsored course, all students are required to pay tuition to S.U. as
stated in the course guide. This course is taught under the same guidelines as the one at S.U. Upon
successful completion, students will receive a S.U. transcript for 4 credits that may be transferred to most
colleges and universities. In formation on registration and payment to S.U. will be discussed in class and
posted on our class web site (see #11 below).
Student expectations
1) Be in class by the late bell. Illegal absences and lateness’s will be dealt with in accordance with the
attendance policy.
2) Proper behavior is to be observed at all times
3) Assignments are to be completed in full by the date due. If you are having difficulty with an assignment, be
sure to ask questions before the due date.
4) A notebook or section of a loose leaf will be needed.
5) A folder is required to maintain your coursework portfolio.
6) Tests are announced at least 2 days ahead of time. Makeup tests are given during your free or lunch period,
or after school the day you return.
7) Quizzes are fair game at any point in time.
8) In case of absence from class for any reason, missed notes will be obtained by the next day (copied or
printed from the white board on the computer). No extensions will be provided for tests or projects. In case of
absence from school for more than one day, please contact me at staylor@ccsd.edu to keep up on topics.
9) Extra help will be offered at least twice a week. I am usually available whenever requested though.
10) Grades can be accessed 24 / 7 by logging on to www.jupitergrades.com. Log on info will be provided
during the first week of school.
11) A calendar of homework, events, and links to websites of interest are available through our class website at
www.smtaylor.org
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STUDENT NAME_____________________________________________
COURSE EXPECTATIONS AND GUIDELINES RECEIPT
***The on-line grade book (www.snapgrades.net) will prevent any surprises at the end of the marking periods.
In order to access this service and communicate more effectively, I will need student and parent e-mail
addresses. I can store up to 3 addresses per student. Home and/or work addresses are fine. Feel free to e-mail
me at any point in time. I do try to check my e-mail often, and will reply as soon as possible. If you do not
have a computer at home, there are many computers at the Clarkstown South High School for public use.
PARENTS:
Feel free to keep up on your child’s assignments (#11 above) and their grades (#10 above); and e-mail
with questions and/or comments etc. or if you have a specialty that may be of interest to the course. Thank
you.
I have read and understand the policy and expectations of the SUPA Forensic
class for this year
Student Name: (print) _______________________Signature___________________________
Parent Name: (print) ________________________Signature___________________________
Parent’s Phone: _____________________________________
Parent E-mail: ______________________________________
***If you have any questions or concerns about the course, please email or call at
your convenience. Thank you!
Email: staylor@ccsd.edu
Tele#: 845-624-3400 ext. 8877
To get info on transferring the credit...GO TO SUPA CHEM info link above...then click on
"ABOUT SUPA". There is a link on that page for transferring credits. Credits may be transferred at
any point in time during your college career. Any problems or questions...e-mail me.
Credits this year are $110 per credit x 8 credits for the course ($880). You will register on-line. S.U.
will bill you directly. Follow instructions given in class.
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Detailed Syllabus
Chemistry 113: Forensic Science
***This is a general guideline but is subject to change based on the pacing of the course and the
overall events of the school year.
Project Advance
I.
Introduction
Definition and Scope of Forensic Science
History and Development of Forensic Science
The Organization of a Crime Laboratory
Services of the Crime Laboratory
The Functions of the Forensic Scientist
Other Forensic Science Services
II.
The Crime Scene
Processing the Crime Scene
Legal Considerations at the Crime Scene
III.
Physical Evidence
Common Types of Physical Evidence
The Significance of Physical Evidence
IV.
Physical properties
The Metric (SI) System
Physical Properties of Glass and Soil
Comparing Glass Fragments
Glass Fractures
Collection and Preservation of Glass Evidence
Forensic Characterization of Soil
Collection and Preservation of Evidence
V.
Organic Analysis
Elements and Compounds
Selecting an Analytical Technique
Chromatography
Spectrophotometry
Mass Spectrometry
VI.
Inorganic Analysis
Evidence in the Assassination of President Kennedy
The Emission Spectrum of Elements
Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry
The Origin of Emission and Absorption Spectra
Neutron Activation Analysis
X-ray Diffraction
VII.
The Microscope
The Compound Microscope
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The Comparison Microscope
The Stereoscopic Microscope
The Polarizing Microscope
The Microspectrophotometer
The Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)
VIII.
Hairs, Fibers and Paint
Morphology of Hair
Identification and Comparison of Hair
Collection of Hair Evidence
Types of Fibers
Identification and Comparison of Man-Made Fibers
Collection of Fiber Evidence
Forensic Examination of Paint
Collection and Preservation of Paint Evidence
IX.
Drugs and Medicinal Chemistry
Drug Dependence
Narcotic Drugs
Hallucinogens
Depressants
Stimulants
Anabolic Steroids
Drug-Control Laws
Drug Identification
Collection and Preservation of Drug Evidence
X.
Forensic Toxicology
Toxicology of Alcohol
The Role of the Toxicologist
Techniques Used in Toxicology
The Significance of Toxicological Findings
The Drug Recognition Expert
XI.
Forensic Aspects of Arson and Explosion Investigations
The Chemistry of Fire
Searching the Fire Scene
Collection and Preservation of Arson Evidence
Analysis of Flammable Residues
Types of Explosives
Collection and Analysis of Explosives
XII.
Forensic Serology
The Nature of Blood
Forensic Characterization of Bloodstains
Stain Pattern of Blood
Principles of Heredity
Forensic Characterization of Semen
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Collection of Rape Evidence
XIII.
DNA Evidence
What is DNA?
DNA at Work
Replication of DNA
Recombinant DNA: Cutting and Splicing DNA
DNA Typing
Mitochondrial DNA
The Combined DNA Index System
The Collection and preservation of Biological Evidence for DNA Analysis
XIV. Fingerprints
History of Fingerprinting
Fundamental Principles of Fingerprints
Classification of Fingerprints
Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems
Methods of Detecting Fingerprints
Preservation of Developed Prints
Digital Imaging for Fingerprint Enhancement
XV.
Firearms, Tool Marks and Other Impressions
Bullet Comparisons
Cartridge Cases
Automated Firearm Search Systems
Gunpowder Residues
Primer residues of the hands
Serial Number Restoration
Collection and Preservation of Firearm Evidence
Tool Marks
Other Impressions
XVI. Document and Voice Examination
Handwriting Comparisons
Collection of Handwriting Exemplars
Typewriting Comparisons
Photocopies, Printer and Fax Examination
Alterations, Erasures and Obliterations
Other Document Problems
Voice Examination
***Speakers in different topics will be scheduled in upon availability
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Rough Timeline of Course ***Subject to Adjustment
SUPA Forensic Science
Topic
Chapter Week
Introduction
 Definition and Scope of Forensic Science
 History and Development of Forensic Science
 Organization of Crime Labs
 Function of the Forensic Scientist
 Case Study: Detection of Curare in the Jascalevich
Murder Trial
Crime Scene Investigation
 Collecting and Preserving Evidence
 Evidence Triage
 Judicial Requirements
 Case Study: Jeff MacDonald
General Characteristics of Physical Evidence
 Class Characteristics vs. Individual Characteristics
 General definition of physical evidence, trace evidence
 Foot prints
Biological Evidence
 Hair
 Fiber Analysis
 Microscopes
 Case Study: Wayne Williams
 TEST OVER CHAPTER 1-3, 7-8
 Fingerprints
 Case Study: Aileen Wournos
 Handwriting analysis
 DNA Analysis
 Serological Analysis
 Fluid Analysis
 Case Study OJ Simpson
 Drugs and Alcohol
 Forensic Toxicology
 Forensic Anthropology
 Case Study: Death of the Czar Romanovs
 Case Study: Tutankomen
 Forensic Entomology
 Autopsy
 Case Studies: Dr. Michael Baden
 TEST OVER CHAPTER 14, 12, 13, 9, 10
1
1
2
2-3
3
2-3
7, 8
4-5
14
6-8
12, 13
6-8
9
10
N.A.
N.A
N.A
N.A.
N.A.
6-8
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Topic
Chapter
Chemical Evidence
 Wet Chemical Analysis
 Spectroscopic Analysis
 Forensic Radiology
 Case Study: Death of Marilyn Monroe
 Case Study Napoleon Bonaparte
 Case Study Shroud of Turin

Physical Evidence
 Glass Identification and Fractures
 Ballistics
 Footprints
 Question Documents
 Forensic Engineering (Arson, structural Analysis)
 Toolmarks
 Case study: JFK Assassination (ballistics)
 Case Study: Lindberg Kidnapping (question docs)
 Case Study: Jack the Ripper (question docs)
 Case Study: Alfred Dreyfus (forgery)
 Case Study: Collapse of the Twin Towers and The
First Truck Bombing of the Towers
5, 6
9. 10
4, 11, 15,
16
11, 12, 13
Psychological Analysis
 Polygraph Evidence
 Psychological Profiling
 Forensic Linguistics
 Case Study: An Assortment of Serial Killers
 National Data banks--
N.A.
14
-Document
Voice examination
-Cost of Crime
-Legal Terminolgy of Sentencing
-Capital Crimes
-Federal vs. State crimes
16
17
15-16
Final Project: Crime Scene Analysis
N/A
17
REVIEW FOR FINAL AND TAKE FINAL
N/A
18-19
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CHE 113 LAB
Rules and Regulations
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You will work in pairs in the laboratory, but you are required and responsible for doing your
own laboratory write-up.
Students are expected to complete their lab on their assigned day and hand-in the laboratory
write-up at the end of the laboratory that same day. If a student wants to switch days one
week, permission must be obtained from one of the instructors at least one week before the
scheduled lab.
CHE 113 laboratory is scheduled for 3 hours. Attendance is mandatory. Each student is
expected to present at the start of the laboratory, during this time the experimental set-up and
safety procedures for each lab is discussed by the instructors. Students who show up late will
be penalized.
A student may leave the laboratory after completing the experiment, clean-up, and the
laboratory write-up (making sure to have each lab initialed and dated by an instructor before
leaving or it will be considered late).
Leaving early before completing the laboratory will result in a grade of zero for the
experiment. The student is reminded that committing to another course, internship, etc. which
overlaps the CHE 113 lab is a violation of University regulations.
Late labs will be penalized. After five days you will receive a zero for the lab.
Each person is responsible for wiping down his/her work area with a damp sponge or paper
towel and washing all glassware with soap and water at the end of each lab period.
If you are in violation of any safety guidelines, you will be asked to remedy the situation only
once. The next time you will be asked to leave lab for that day. There will be no make-up labs.
Safety Guidelines
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Safety glasses must be worn at all times while in lab. You will be given one warning. If it
happens a second time you will be asked to leave lab and you will receive a zero for the lab.
Do not wear contacts in lab. Wear your glasses.
If glassware breaks and/or chemicals spill, inform the instructor. Do not try and clean the spill
and/or glass yourself.
If you cut/burn yourself and/or spill anything on your clothing and/or skin in lab, inform the
instructor immediately.
Long hair must be tied back.
Avoid wearing loose clothing and jewelry.
Wash your hands before leaving lab and going to the bathroom.
Do not sit on the lab benches.
Do not eat or drink in lab at any time.
No open-toed shoes, sandals or shorts may be worn in lab at any time.
Use the disposable gloves provided when required and change them frequently.
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