TV dramas tend to exaggerate the forensic science components. Learn what true forensic chemistry looks like in an installment of a larger series covering reactions. Viewers see that chromatography, mass spectrography, and methodical processes are valuable tools in forensic science in real life, too.

Concepts

forensics, half lives, biochemistry

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Show a video of a CSI episode that highlights the sensationalism of the forensic sciences
• Invite a local forensic expert to discuss their use of chemistry in crime fighting

Classroom Considerations

• Assumes learners are familiar with the field of forensics

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• Discusses the facts while making the occupation sound interesting and important
• Interviews an actually forensic scientist to add relevance to the discussion

Cons

• None

Common Core

SL.9-10.2 SL.11-12.2 RST.9-10.7 RST.11-12.7