Crime-solving Science Projects: Forensic Science Experiments

Introduces various aspects of forensic science--document examination, forgeries and counterfeiting, blood and DNA analysis, and trace evidence--and provides suggestions for related projects.

Gr 5-9-Vivien Bowers's Crime Science (Owl, 1997) explains techniques used by investigators to solve crimes. Rainis's volume explores some of these same methods through experiments. The book opens with a definition of forensic science, a table outlining what work is done in a crime lab, a list of some careers in the field, and a discussion of the basic steps involved in producing a science project. It also cautions readers about safety (some materials and solutions require adult supervision). Chapters that follow cover such topics as fingerprints, inks, writing samples, fibers, forgeries, and blood evidence. The explanations are well written, and unfamiliar terms are clearly defined within the text. Numerous black-and-white line drawings, charts, and diagrams offer further clarification. Throughout the book, specific suggestions for turning the investigations into full-fledged science projects are provided. Students are also asked to consider the evidence in six different cases based on the discussions. Solutions are provided in the back of the book. An interesting and useful addition.-Marilyn Long Graham, Lee County Library System, Estero, FL

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