Overview
We learn from CSI, Law & Order, and NCIS that forensic science is infallible, leading to the conviction of people who might otherwise have gotten away with their crimes. But DNA testing has shown that bite marks, fingerprints, and carpet fiber and hair analyses have all led to the convictions of innocent people.

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Lesson Insights

Grade level and subjects
• Recommended for grades 6-12
• Subjects: Science / Technology
• Works in Classroom, Hybrid, and Homeschool settings

What students will learn
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
• discuss problems with accepted applications of forensic science;
• explain the impact of DNA testing on previous convictions; and
• evaluate the importance of DNA testing in the criminal justice system.

Key concepts and terms covered
Forensic science.

Sample discussion questions
• What is the difference between what detectives can do on TV shows and what they can do in real life?
• If you were a juror, would the video you saw affect your vote to convict a person based on forensic evidence? DNA evidence? Explain. What if there were no DNA evidence?
• Dr. Karazulas said he is not on the side of the prosecution or defense, and that he looks at the evidence neutrally. If so, does this mean we should accept his testimony as true? Why or why not?
• What is good about convicting guilty people? What is bad about convicting innocent people? Which is more important? Discuss.
• Suppose you are a juror at a murder trial. You hear from two eyewitnesses, each of whose testimony you judge to be most likely accurate and which place the defendant near the scene of the crime. You hear from a bite mark expert, who says he is 98% sure that bite marks on the victim are those of the defendant, pointing to several similarities between the defendant’s teeth and features of the bite marks. The defense attorney has yet to present his case. So far, how would you evaluate the evidence? Does it make you want to vote to convict? Explain. 4

What’s in the free teacher’s guide
This printable 6-page Teacher's Guide includes a lesson description, learning objectives, key vocabulary, a fill-in viewing guide with answer key, discussion and analysis questions, and classroom activities.

Standards alignment
Aligned to state standards — use the SITC Standards Tool to match this video to the standards in your state.