Active learning ideas
The Investigative Process covers the critical early stages of a criminal case, from the moment a crime is reported to the point where a suspect is charged. Students learn about the roles of various professionals, including first responding officers, Crime Scene Investigators (CSIs), detectives, and forensic pathologists. This topic focuses on the importance of securing a crime scene, maintaining the 'chain of evidence,' and the legal frameworks that govern police powers, such as PACE (Police and Criminal Evidence Act). This aligns with WJEC AC1.1 and AC1.2.
Activity 01
Create a mock crime scene in the classroom. Students are assigned roles (CSI, Lead Detective, First Officer) and must work together to secure the area, identify five pieces of evidence, and complete a 'log' without contaminating the scene.
Who are the key personnel involved in a criminal investigation?
Activity 02
Provide students with three scenarios where police have stopped or searched a suspect. In pairs, students must use their knowledge of the PACE Act to determine if the police acted legally and what the consequences might be for the evidence gathered.
How is a crime scene secured and processed?
Activity 03
Posters around the room describe different roles (Forensic Pathologist, Digital Forensic Tech, etc.). Students move around and must list one way each role contributes to the 'usefulness' of an investigation and one challenge they face.
What are the legal limitations placed on police investigations?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Detectives do everything, from collecting DNA to interviewing suspects and performing autopsies.
In reality, these are highly specialised roles. A CSI collects evidence, but a lab technician processes it, and a pathologist performs the autopsy. A 'Roles in the Investigation' gallery walk helps students understand this division of labour.
Evidence found at a crime scene is always admissible in court.
If the 'chain of custody' is broken or if the evidence was gathered in violation of PACE, it can be excluded from the trial. The 'PACE Power Play' activity helps students see how legal rules can override physical evidence.
Methods used in this brief
Forensic and Investigative Techniques
Evaluating the usefulness of various investigative techniques such as DNA profiling, surveillance, and suspect interviewing. Students will consider the ethical and legal implications of gathering evidence.
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