Lesson 2: Careers in Forensic Science

What is a forensic scientist?
What are the different job opportunities?
What is a specialist?
What is the role of a specialist?

Specialist
Forensic toxicologist
Forensic engineer
Crime scene investigator
Forensic scientist
Forensic pathologist
Forensic DNA analyst
Forensic science technician
Medical examiner

HS-ETS1--1 Design a solution to a complex real-world problem by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable problems that can be solved through engineering.

HS-ETS1-3. Evaluate a solution to a complex real-world problem based on prioritized criteria and trade-offs that account for a range of constraints, including cost, safety, reliability, and aesthetics as well as possible social, cultural, and environmental impacts.

TBD

The purpose of this lesson is two fold. It introduces students to possible careers in forensics, but also helps identify the role of each forensic specialist in crime solving.

DOK Level 1 -2

Video clip or image of a recent famous crime scene being processed with evidence markers.

Photos: J. Benet crime scene

A forensic scientist is not a criminologist as seen on TV. Instead the forensic scientist processes crime scene evidence.

MPS Science Curriculum Differentiation Strategies
https://tinyurl.com/5n6c24k7

Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of forensic careers by correctly identifying which forensic specialist will be used for each type of crime scene.

Crime scene with many different pieces of evidence.

Technology

HMH

Forensic specialist worksheet