Active learning ideas
Forensic and Investigative Techniques explores the scientific and psychological tools used to solve crimes. This includes DNA profiling, fingerprinting, surveillance, and suspect interviewing techniques like the 'PEACE' model. Students also examine the reliability of eyewitness testimony and the impact of forensic 'breakthroughs' on cold cases. This topic aligns with WJEC AC1.2 and AC1.3, requiring students to assess the usefulness and limitations of these techniques in real-world scenarios.
Activity 01
Groups are given five types of evidence: DNA, Eyewitness Testimony, CCTV, Fingerprints, and a Suspect Confession. They must rank them from 'most reliable' to 'least reliable' and provide two reasons for their ranking based on case study evidence.
How does DNA profiling assist in solving historical crimes?
Activity 02
Show a 30-second clip of a staged crime. Without talking, students must answer 10 specific questions about the perpetrator's appearance and actions. Compare results as a class to demonstrate the fallibility of human memory.
What are the ethical concerns surrounding covert surveillance?
Activity 03
Set up stations for Facial Recognition, DNA Databases, and Covert Surveillance. At each station, students must list one way the tech helps catch criminals and one way it might infringe on civil liberties.
How reliable is eyewitness testimony in criminal investigations?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
DNA evidence is 100% proof of guilt.
DNA only proves that a person's biological material was at a location; it doesn't prove *when* or *how* it got there, or that they committed the crime. The 'Reliability Rank' activity helps students understand the difference between presence and guilt.
Eyewitnesses are the most important part of a trial.
Research shows that eyewitness testimony is often unreliable due to stress, weapon focus, or leading questions. The 'Eyewitness Test' simulation is a powerful way to show students how easily our brains can get details wrong.
Methods used in this brief
The Investigative Process
A detailed look at the roles of key personnel involved in criminal investigations, including Crime Scene Investigators and detectives. Students will evaluate how crime scenes are secured and processed.
8 methodologies
The Crown Prosecution Service and the Courts
Understanding the role of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and the application of the Full Code Test. Students will explore the trial processes in both Magistrates' and Crown Courts.
8 methodologies
Miscarriages of Justice
Examining cases where the justice system has failed, leading to wrongful convictions or acquittals. Students will analyse the appeals process and the impact of these failures on public trust.
8 methodologies