Use science to solve the mystery of the Poplar murder. Pupils use forensic botany to determine if a suspect could be the killer. By analyzing images from a Transmission Electron Microscope, learners determine if the material found on the suspect's shoe is plant or animal material. They focus on the scale of the organelles to help make their conclusions.

Concepts

animal cells, plant cells, microscopes, botany, cells, cell organelles

Show More Show Less

Additional Tags

science

Show More Show Less

Instructional Ideas

• Prior to the activity, have your classes draw an example of a plant and animal cell with all corresponding parts
• Highlight key vocabulary through note cards or a graphic organizer

Classroom Considerations

• If providing pupils copies of the images, you will need access to a color copier or printer

Pros

• Includes all necessary materials for the investigation
• Provides suggestions for differentiation and extension

Cons

• None