Forensic science: where the dead teach the living! My students from last year were so interested and engaged in anatomy when I taught a unit on forensic anthropology last year. This year I desperately need more "hands-on" supplies so they can "bone up" on their science skills.
I have had an amazing opportunity as a new teacher to take this forensic science class and develop my own curriculum.
The subject matter lends itself to a vast assortment of students ranging from 10th to 12th grade with many different levels of science experience. Forensic science has proven to be common ground for students of all socio-economic, ethnic, and social strata. All of the students who come through my door are those who are looking for a different kind of science class; whether it is because they have not done well with more traditional subject matter, or they have enjoyed all of the other science opportunities and are looking for something new. I am privileged to have the opportunity to create lessons that are interesting to all and inspire those who are otherwise disinterested in science.
My Project
My students and I were so disappointed when I taught the unit about forensic anthropology because, for obvious reasons, it is very difficult to have actual remains for them to evaluate. We watched film clips about how excavations are done and how bones are analyzed to determine age, race, sex, and possible cause of death; however, all of my students really wanted to try all of these cool things for themselves, and I could not provide them with this opportunity. It was such a shame to see my reluctant learners inspired to try something new, and be let down that I did not have adequate supplies to follow through with a real hands-on experience. This year I am hoping to enrich my forensic anthropology unit with simulated remains that the students can handle, measure, and evaluate. My goal this year is to inspire as many students as I can to take another science class to further their learning and understanding of the human body, our human past, and scientific inquiry.
With the simulated bones I need to enhance my forensic science course, I hope to stimulate my reluctant learners and energize my students who need further extension into learning.
I know from my experience teaching this course last year that realia is critical for many who need to touch and handle the subject in order to attain mastery of scientific concepts.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Gidcumb and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.