Forensic Science for High Schoolers with Alice Gambino

 Open to Students Ages 14 - 17

In this year long study we'll sharpen our scientific skills and expand our knowledge through the lens of forensic science.

Our learning adventure will cover the science behind using hair, fingerprints, fibers, and blood as crime scene evidence. We’ll also dive into the forensic science of entomology (YES, BUGS!), anthropology (human development and culture). And what about Toxicology? Autopsies? Arson? Ballistics? Yes! We'll explore all of these topics and so much more.

We'll work together to:

• Investigate our own mock crime scenes

• Participate in mock autopsies

• Propagate "forensic insects" and observe their life-cycles

• Apply our knowledge to real-life mysteries

• Create our own forensic crime solving boards

When

Fridays 10:30am - 12:30pm with additional, weekly independent work in Google Classroom

September 6, 2024 - May 9, 2025

*2 inclement weather days are included.

Classes will not meet on November 29, December 27, January 3, and April 18.

Duration 

This class will meet in person once a week for 90 minutes for a total of 30 weeks, broken into two 15-week semesters.

Students will also participate independently in a weekly virtual lesson available in Google Classroom.

Location

Classes will take place at Ms. Alice’s House on Boston Avenue in downtown Silver Spring, MD.  Her home is a block away from Silver Spring Intermediate Park and just blocks away from the Montgomery College Takoma Campus.  Ms. Alice’s House has a fully enclosed backyard with a further enclosed duck pen and apiary.  Classes will take place both inside and outside.

Materials & Activities

Learning materials will be provided.  We'll use hands-on exploration including mock crime scenes, labs, and games as well as texts, articles, and media resources.

Each students will also create their own forensic science reference book.

    

Cost

$250 per semester.  

(If you are experiencing financial hardship, I am happy to work with you on a payment plan or reduced fee.)

Accommodations

There are restrooms available and a snack will be provided each week.  Students are encouraged to bring water bottles to stay hydrated.

Health & Safety: 

Hand sanitizer will be provided.  Hand washing with soap and water will be encouraged after interacting with our ducks or their eggs or our goats.  *Masks are optional.

Emergency Medical Forms as well as food allergies will be kept on hand. 

Registration Is Now CLOSED!

Space is limited.

*The optional facemask policy may change if students with compromised immune systems register.