October Unit Study: Forensic Science

This month we explored the fascinating world of forensic science, where curiosity met investigation and creativity met logic. Students learned how evidence helps solve mysteries through fingerprinting, composite sketches, and handwriting analysis. They practiced asking clear questions and thinking critically about perspective during games like Guess Who and a hands-on mystery challenge to find Abuela Fabulosa’s stolen taco seasoning recipe. Our “Who-Dun-It” night was a highlight, where students used clues, debated evidence, and solved a school mystery under the stars. We also connected forensics to the art world through the Mona Lisa Heist, learned about Sherlock Holmes, and identified logical fallacies to strengthen reasoning.

We do not teach to standards, however, here are standard connections we made in this unit:

Virginia SOL Connections:

Science: 3.1, 4.1, 5.1, 6.1

Mathematics: 3.17, 4.13

History/Social Science: VS.1, CE.1

Fine Arts: Visual Arts Standards

Computer Science: K–8 Computer Science Standards

World Languages: Spanish Standards

English: 3.7, 4.7, 5.7

Health/PE: Physical activity, safety, and teamwork

Forensics & Scientific Investigation

• Explored how forensic scientists use evidence, logic, and observation to solve mysteries

• Practiced fingerprinting, handwriting analysis, and composite sketching

• Investigated bias and perspective through games like Guess Who and mystery challenges

• Learned about the Mona Lisa Heist and Sherlock Holmes, connecting science with art and literature

• Discussed logical fallacies and identified flawed reasoning in real-world examples

Hands-On Projects

• Solved the mystery of Abuela Fabulosa’s stolen taco seasoning using real forensic methods

• Created “Who-Dun-It” character profiles and investigated clues during our nighttime mystery

• Designed creative “Wanted” posters inspired by the Louvre Heist (current affairs)

• Built fingerprint models and practiced observation through outdoor clue hunts

• Collaborative painting for the local Fall Art Tour

Art, Logic & Technology Connections

• Explored how forensic techniques are used in art investigation and restoration

• Learned about visual storytelling and perspective through drawing and writing

• Continued coding lessons in Scratch, creating animated characters and logical sequences

Community & Seasonal Activities

• Participated in our first annual Chili Cookoff and Fall Art Tour

• Enjoyed outdoor play, campfire stories, and flashlight games after the mystery night

• Helped plant our winter garden and crafted handmade trophies for the cookoff

• Celebrated teamwork, curiosity, and creativity through every investigation