Forensics Science Semester B Syllabus

“All objects in the universe are unique. No two things that happen by chance ever happen in exactly the same way. No two things are ever constructed or manufactured in exactly the same way. No two things wear in exactly the same way. No two things ever break in exactly the same way.”

― Joe Nickell, Forensic Science Investigator

Forensic Science Semester 2 2015-2016 Syllabus

Instructor: Mr. Schoch

Email: raschoch@district287.org

Website: courses.district287.org

Course Description:  Forensics is a science elective course designed for two semesters coving one year.  The second semester of this course will build upon the foundation of the topics and labs that were completed during the first semester.  This course covers key topics in forensic science, including the application of the scientific process to forensic analysis, procedures and principles of crime scene investigation, physical and trace evidence, and the law and courtroom procedures from the perspective of the forensic scientist. Through online lessons, virtual and hands-on labs, and analysis of fictional crime scenarios, students learn about forensic tools, technical resources, forming and testing hypotheses, proper data collection, and responsible conclusions.

Topics to be covered include:

Drugs and Toxicology

DNA

Serology

Blood spatter

Hair, Fibers and Paint analysis

Fire and arson

Explosions and bombs

Fingerprints

Glass and soil

Firearms and toolmarks

Computers and Digital Evidence

Trace Evidence

Organic Analysis

Psychology

 

Grading:

Grades are calculated on a percentage basis. The value of each individual assignment varies. Students earn a grade based on the quality and accuracy of the work they complete. Overall class grades are based on a straight percentage, not a curve.  Approximate percentages are as follows:

Assessments 25%     Daily work/ Assignments/ Readings/Labs 55%   Daily Participation 10%

Grade Breakdown is as follows:

A   94% and above

A- 90-93.9%

B+ 87-89.9%

B  84-86.9%

B- 80-83.9%

C+ 77-79.9%

C 74-76.9%

C- 70-73.9%

D+ 67-69.9%

D 64-66.9%

D- 60-63.9%

Incomplete - 59.95 and below

Assessments

Random small assessments (could be “pop” quizzes) will occur throughout each of the units. At the end of each unit, an exam and a vocabulary assessment will be given. The study guide should be completed before the test. Those who do not have it completed will not be as prepared to take the exam yet will still take the exam.

Daily Participation

Class discussion will be a big part of instruction in this course. Participation includes answering questions when asked, contributing to the discussion and/or group work/activities. This will be assessed on an individual basis.

Science Notes

Students are required to keep and maintain science notes. Almost every day, students will be asked to answer questions, take notes, or do something that will require them to keep papers.  A simple spiral bound single subject notebook and a folder or a three ring binder is an excellent way to keep and store notes and papers.

Academic Dishonesty – CHEATING - Group VS Individual Class work

Quite a bit of work done in class will be done in pairs or groups. It is my expectation that when all students are required to turn in work, answers should be in your own words not those of “the team”. Getting and copying answers from others will result in some form of consequence. This is not the same as getting help from others.  

Academic dishonesty will not be tolerated. Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to the following: cheating on tests, assignments, projects or similar activities; claiming another person’s work; fabrication of facts, sources or other supporting material; unauthorized collaboration; facilitating academic dishonesty; and other misconduct related to academics. Plagiarism is the theft of ideas, writings, or words of another person and passing this information off as one's own. Any student cheating will be subject to academic and/or disciplinary penalties.  Consequences may include: reduction in grade on assignment, repeat assignment, no grade(zero) on assignment or others as deemed appropriate.

Late Work and Make-­Up Work

All assignments will have a due date that will typically coincide with the unit test date unless otherwise stated. With the due date for work comes full credit. Late work will take a 20% deduction for the first week it is late. After the next unit is completed, 50% will be deducted. Any assignment can be turned in “late” throughout the semester up until 1 week before the end of each semester (Semester 2 –Thursday, June 2nd).  Large excused absences (example a surgery) will be dealt with on a case by case basis.  

Attendance and Tardy Policy

If you are absent for whatever reason, you should be contacting the program.  SEND AN EMAIL TO MR. SCHOCH TELLING HIM WHY YOU WILL BE ABSENT, IN ADVANCE.  Whenever you are absent you will be missing about 1 ½ hours of class time and trying to catch up on the work will be difficult.  If you have a planned absence (dentist, doctor, extracurricular, etc.), please notify me as soon as possible in advance. Absences do not excuse you from turning in work or taking a test. The day you return to school is the day the work is due. If handouts or information is needed to complete the work missed, then it is you that must find it on Moodle or ask for handouts. (The responsibility is yours!).  Tardies will be noted in the attendance record. Being tardy means not being in the class ON TIME and will cost you participation points!

 

Classroom Management

A. RESPECT – Everything in class will revolve around being respectful toward everyone. This includes using classroom appropriate language, using non-­disruptive methods to participate in class discussions, using manners, using time given in class, etc.

B. Restroom/water fountain breaks – There is plenty of time between classes and at break to use the restroom and get a drink of water, so use your time wisely. Emergency situations will come up and will be taken into consideration…just ask!!!  Please communicate to me when things come up.

C. Seating chart –You are free to sit where you would like; however the right to move students around is reserved for any time deemed necessary.  If you are asked to move it is for your own good.

D. Food or drinks – Food and drinks may be allowed within reason and you will be responsible for cleaning up after yourself. This is a privilege and it will be instantly revoked if it becomes a problem.  On days where lab activities are done, absolutely no food or drinks will be allowed.  

E. Cell phone use- you must learn to realize when it is or is not appropriate to use your cell phone.  Using your cell phone inappropriately in class is a huge distraction and will cost you participation points.  Just because you are physically present, it does not mean that you are mentally present.

Last modified: Tuesday, January 26, 2016, 1:38 PM