Forensics: Fingerprinting
Suggested Time Frame: 2 weeks
Unit Designer: James Hook
Link to Content Standards
Broad Concept: There is a relationship between the organization of cells into tissues, and tissues into organs. The structure and function of organs determine their relationships within body systems of an organism. Homeostasis allows the body to perform its normal functions.
- SIS1. Make observations, raise questions, and formulate hypotheses.
- SIS2. Design and conduct scientific investigations.
- SIS3. Analyze and interpret results of scientific investigations.
- SIS4. Communicate and apply the results of scientific investigations.
Brief summary of Unit
- Understand why fingerprints are individual evidence
- Understand what techniques are used to uncover fingerprints and why specific techniques are used at different times
- Understand why there may be no fingerprint evidence at a crime scene
Objectives to be covered
- Define the three basic properties that allow individual identification by fingerprints
- Obtain an inked, readable fingerprint for each finger
- Recognize the general ridge patterns (loops, whorls, and arches) and apply them to the primary Henry-FBI classification
- Identify friction ridge characteristics and compare two fingerprints with at least ten points of identification
- Tell the difference among latent, plastic and visible fingerprints
- Develop latent prints using physical and chemical methods
Enduring Knowledge
Students will be able to:
- Classify fingerprints based on the general ridge patterns
- Compare different fingerprints and identify matching prints based on ten points of identification
- Identify which technique should be used to uncover different fingerprints
Essential Questions
- How are fingerprints identified
- What techniques are used uncover fingerprints
Terms:
Fingerprints loop delta plastic prints
whorl arch core visible prints
latent print bifurcation enclosure bridge
spur dot ridge ending island
trifurcation double bifurcation
Assessments
Lab 1 Loops, Whorls, and Arches
Lab 2 Henry Number
Lab 3 No two the same
Test Fingerprinting
