Forensic Science (Self-Paced)

Description

Course Syllabus

Forensic Science is a high-interest, multi-disciplinary journey where science meets the law. Students apply biology, chemistry, and physics to solve criminal mysteries in a flexible, inquiry-based environment.

Why Choose Forensic Science?

Welcome to the exciting world where science is applied to the law. This full-year course teaches students how to collect, examine, and evaluate evidence in criminal investigations.

Because forensic science is an “umbrella” discipline, students will draw on anatomy, anthropology, biology, chemistry, entomology, geology, pathology, and physics to understand how crimes are solved. It is the ultimate “hands-on” science for students who want to see how theory is applied in the real world.

⚖️ Choose Your Track: Regular Academic vs. Honors

This course is available as both a Regular Academic and Honors-level credit. While both tracks cover the same eight core units, Honors students will engage in deeper independent research and more complex case-study analyses.

Course Highlights:

• Eight Comprehensive Units: Each unit includes at least one lab (hands-on or virtual).

• Practical Experience: From blood spatter analysis to forensic anthropology, students gain real-world experience.

• Independent Research: Students learn to investigate and evaluate evidence just like professional forensic technicians.

🛠 How the Self-Paced Model Works

This course is designed for flexibility, combining independent study with guided inquiry.

• Work on Your Schedule: There is no required weekly Live Zoom attendance. Students move through assignments on their own schedule.

• Guided Pacing: A recommended weekly schedule is provided to help students stay on track for the January 8 and May 21 deadlines.

• Engaging Content: Learning happens through a mix of textbook readings, Edpuzzle video activities, recorded lectures, and interactive web resources.

• Deadlines for Success: *

  • January 8, 2027: First Semester completion.

  • May 21, 2027: Full Course completion.

🤝 Instructor Support & Accountability

Even in a self-paced environment, the instructor remains an active partner in the student’s education:

• Active Monitoring: I review all labs, case studies, and discussion activities to provide targeted feedback.

• Quarterly 1-on-1s: Required Zoom meetings ensure students remain engaged and on track with the material.

• Support: I am available via email (48-hour response time) and during scheduled office hours for questions.

🔬 Labs & Expectations

• The Lab Experience: Concepts are reinforced through hands-on labs, virtual simulations, and mini-labs.

• Time Commitment: Students should plan for approximately 5–7 hours per week of study and lab work.

• Assessment: Mastery is measured through weekly quizzes and unit tests administered via the Canvas LMS.

⚠️ Important Course Note: Mature Content

Forensic Science naturally involves mature and sometimes graphic content (e.g., pathology, crime scene photography).

• Maturity: Students are expected to maintain professional and mature behavior at all times.

• Permission: A parent/guardian permission form is required to view certain forensic-related materials.

Is This the Right Fit?

This course is ideal for students who:

• Are fascinated by criminal investigation and “CSI” style science.

• Enjoy independent research and applying science to solve puzzles.

• Need a flexible schedule to balance other commitments.

More Information

Prerequisites & Expectations:

• Readiness:  Completion of basic biology and chemistry courses

• Summer Assignment: A required assignment is provided to ensure students are ready for the course on Day 1.

• Tech: Requires high-speed internet and access to the Canvas platform.

Supplies Needed:

1. Scientific Calculator (does NOT need to be a graphing calculator)
2. A 100-sheet graph paper notebook
3. Pen/pencils
4. Colored Pencils/Markers
5. Tape – double-sided as well as clear tape
6. Scissors
7. Index Cards
8. Post-it Notes
9. Lab Materials: A list of required supplies will be sent at least 4-6 weeks before the start of the course. Some will be household-type supplies.

Technology Requirements

• High-speed, broadband Internet
• Streaming video capabilities to watch video lectures and other videos as assigned
• Computer Access
• Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint or Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides Access
• Printer
• Scanner, smartphone, or tablet with the ability to scan

Evaluation and Feedback

All grades will be available in Canvas for students and parents. Assignments will be graded within one week of submission. Students will be evaluated based on their performance in quizzes and tests, mini-laboratory investigations, formal lab reports, homework, and independent projects. A progress report will be given mid-semester and at the end of the semester. Assignments 15%, Labs & Mini-Labs 25%, Mastery Checks (Quizzes) 20%, Assessments (Unit Tests and Semester Exams) 20%, Projects 10%, and Professionalism 10%

Communication

Parents and Students may contact me through Canvas. I will respond to all communications within 48 hours. Please do not hesitate to contact me or ask questions.