Forensic science

The activity

Hands-on experiments
Students will test ‘urine’ for the presence of ‘drugs’ and ‘blood’ samples to determine blood group. They will take their own finger prints to eliminate themselves from the enquiry, look at prints found at the scene and those belonging to suspects. Pupils will also test evidence for the presence of copper.

Additional activities similar to those above will be included in the longer sessions.

Learning outcomes
Pupils will be taken through a series of investigations and experiments to enable them to solve a ‘murder’. They will be provided with information to allow them to devise their own theories and motives.

Important information

Target age range – Years 7 to 9

Group size – 1 school class (25 to 30 pupils) working in small groups

Length of activity – 1.5 hours to a whole morning or afternoon session

Equipment – All equipment is provided by the visiting scientists. Pupils will require their own pens or pencils to make any notes they feel appropriate.

Safety – Most of our materials can be brought off of the shelf. Safety goggles and gloves will be provided where necessary.

Classroom set-up – Students will work through a carousel of investigations in small groups of 3 or 4. At each activity, seated places are required.