Plan
Week 1
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Activities
Project Launch: Detective's Discovery Expedition - Students embark on a scavenger hunt to uncover clues around the school. They apply forensic techniques and mathematical calculations to solve a fictional crime, setting the stage for the project. (60 min)
Introduction to Forensic Science - A hands-on session where students explore the basics of forensic science, including fingerprinting, and discuss the essential question: How can math and science be used to uncover the truth in a crime investigation? (50 min)
Vocabulary and Concept Mapping - Students create a concept map of key forensic terms and math concepts related to the project. They will work collaboratively to define and discuss their importance in solving crimes. (50 min)
Forensic Techniques Workshop - A hands-on workshop where students learn and practice various forensic techniques such as fingerprint analysis, chromatography, and fiber analysis. (80 min)
Mathematical Applications in Forensics - Students explore how scale drawings and geometric transformations are used in crime scene investigations. They will practice solving problems related to scale drawings. (80 min)
Digital Tools Introduction - Students are introduced to digital tools for modeling crime scenes, including software for creating scale drawings and simulating forensic scenarios. (60 min)
Self-Directed Learning Session - Students receive peer and teacher feedback on their initial digital models and reflect on their learning progress. They use this feedback to make adjustments to their digital models. (50 min)
Team Reflection and Goal Setting - Teams reflect on their progress and set goals for the next phase of the project, focusing on collaboration and effective communication strategies. (50 min)
Crime Scene Reconstruction Planning - Students begin planning their crime scene reconstructions, using scale drawings and geometric transformations to layout the scene. (80 min)
Fraction Operations in Forensics - Students solve real-world problems involving multiplication of fractions and mixed numbers, applying these skills to forensic scenarios, such as calculating areas and distances. (80 min)
Peer Review of Crime Scene Plans - Teams present their crime scene reconstruction plans to peers for feedback, focusing on mathematical accuracy and forensic detail. (60 min)
Digital Portfolio Development - Students begin compiling their work into a digital portfolio, including initial reflections and evidence of learning. They also draft a reflection on how math and science have been applied in their investigation. (50 min)
Community Partner Connection - Students prepare questions for a scheduled interaction with a representative from the Pasquotank Sheriff's Office, focusing on real-world applications of forensic science. (50 min)
Deliverables
1. Crime Scene Reconstructions from scavenger hunt findings.
2. Completed digital models of crime scenes using learned techniques.
3. Compiled list of domain-specific vocabulary related to forensic science.
4. Written reflections on the application of math and science in forensic investigations.
5. Initial digital portfolio entries including reflections and crime scene models.
Preparation 1. Gather materials for fingerprinting, such as graphite powder, brushes, and magnifying glasses.
2. Create and distribute scavenger hunt clues and a map of the school for the expedition.
3. Prepare digital devices and software tutorials for modeling tools like Google SketchUp.
4. Arrange for guest speakers from the Pasquotank Sheriff's office to discuss real-world applications of forensic science.
5. Prepare vocabulary lists and reflection prompts for students' digital portfolios.
Week 2
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10
Activities
Crime Scene Scale Drawing - Students will create detailed scale drawings of their fictional crime scenes, applying mathematical concepts of scale and proportion. (40 min)
Geometric Transformations Exploration - Using cut-out shapes, students will explore rotations, reflections, translations, and dilations to understand geometric transformations in their crime scene context. (40 min)
Vocabulary Development - Collaboratively, students will compile a glossary of forensic and mathematical terms used in their project, enhancing academic language proficiency. (40 min)
Digital Portfolio Update - Students will begin compiling digital evidence and reflections into their portfolios, focusing on their findings and vocabulary development. (40 min)
Fraction Models in Forensics - Students will use fraction models to simulate forensic scenarios, such as calculating blood spatter patterns, to practice multiplication of fractions. (40 min)
Interactive Website Design - Students will be introduced to website design basics, starting to build the framework for their interactive project website. (40 min)
Peer Feedback Session - Students will present their progress to peers, offering and receiving constructive feedback to refine their crime scene reconstructions and digital portfolios. (40 min)
Reflection Writing - Students will write reflective pieces on how math and science contributed to their investigative process, to be included in their digital portfolios. (40 min)
Digital Crime Scene Reconstruction - Using digital tools, students will create a 3D model of their crime scene, applying geometric concepts and forensic techniques. (60 min)
Effective Communication Workshop - Students will engage in activities to enhance their presentation skills, focusing on clarity, empathy, and engagement for their upcoming exhibition. (40 min)
Community Partner Interaction - Students will have a virtual meeting with representatives from the Pasquotank Sheriff's office to discuss real-world forensic applications and receive feedback. (40 min)
Website Development - Continue building the interactive website, integrating digital crime scene reconstructions and written reflections. (20 min)
Final Portfolio Compilation - Students will finalize their digital portfolios, ensuring all evidence and reflections are polished and complete. (60 min)
Exhibition Preparation - Students will rehearse their presentations for the 'Truth Unveiled Exhibition,' focusing on answering potential audience questions and articulating their findings. (40 min)
Critical Thinking Reflection - Students will engage in a reflective discussion on the essential question, synthesizing their learning experiences and preparing for the Q&A session at the exhibition. (40 min)
Peer Review and Collaboration - Students will conduct a final peer review session, offering last-minute suggestions and support to ensure everyone is prepared for the exhibition. (20 min)
Truth Unveiled Exhibition Setup - Students will set up their exhibition space, arranging digital displays and preparing interactive elements for community engagement. (40 min)
Live Exhibition - Students will present their digital portfolios to community members, including the Pasquotank Sheriff's office, engaging in discussions and answering questions. (80 min)
Post-Exhibition Reflection - Students will debrief and reflect on the exhibition experience, discussing insights gained and personal growth throughout the project. (40 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed digital portfolios showcasing crime scene reconstructions, including evidence analysis and mathematical calculations.
2. Interactive websites that host students' digital portfolios, demonstrating their understanding of forensic science and math applications.
3. Written reflections on the learning journey, highlighting self-directed learning and critical thinking processes.
4. Participation in the 'Truth Unveiled Exhibition', presenting digital portfolios to community members and engaging in the Q&A session.
5. Peer and self-reflection feedback forms, documenting insights and areas for improvement.
6. A collaborative crime scene reconstruction project that incorporates scale drawings and geometric transformations.
Preparation 1. Set up a digital platform for students to create and host their interactive websites.
2. Gather materials for digital modeling, including access to design software and online resources for scale drawings and geometric transformations.
3. Coordinate with the Pasquotank Sheriff's office to invite representatives to the 'Truth Unveiled Exhibition'.
4. Prepare a venue for the exhibition, ensuring space for digital displays and audience seating.
5. Create templates for students' digital portfolios, including sections for crime scene reconstruction, evidence analysis, and reflections.
6. Ensure digital cameras or smartphones are available for students to document their work.
7. Prepare guidelines for the Q&A session at the exhibition to help students articulate their learning process effectively.