In order to begin out solve a murder mystery STEM project, our group was given a crime report and was prompted to use multiple examples of evidence through labs to create a well devised claim. As well as Ms. Mathews helping our class to develop evidence, we also had guest speakers like the FBI agents. This evidence included fingerprints, a death note, pedigree charts, chromosome disorders, blood types, and ink chromatography.
Evidence of our slideshow, Criminal State Investigation
Key Terms
Ink Chromatography - Ink is a mixture of several dyes and therefore we can separate those colors from one another using chromatography. While experimenting with ink chromatography, this provided more evidence for our claim. Fingerprinting- a technique used especially for identification (as for forensic purposes) by extracting and identifying the base-pair pattern of an individual's DNA. Fingerprinting analysis helped us conclude evidence from the letter written with the 3 kinds of pens, that showed Sam Sophomore and Nancy Normal's fingerprints. Karyotypes- organized profile of a person's chromosomes. These were relevant in our diseases of each suspect. For example, Theresa Terra's organized chromosomes proved she had Down Syndrome. Pedigrees- A diagram showing the lineage or genealogy of an individual and all the direct ancestors, usually to analyze or follow the inheritance of trait. We used pedigrees in our project in order to determine motives for committing the crime. Since Thomas Sandstone has the same pedigree as Carelton Comet, we were able to conclude they are the same man. DNA Structure- DNA is made up of molecules called nucleotides. Each nucleotide contains a phosphate group, a sugar group and a nitrogen base. We used DNA structure to conclude evidence in our presentation in order to create a stronger case claim. DNA Replication- The process by which a double-stranded DNA molecule is copied to produce two identical DNA molecules. In our project, DNA Replication helped us get a better understanding of genetic information. DNA Mutations- A mutation is a change that occurs in our DNA sequence, either due to mistakes when the DNA is copied or as the result of environmental factors. The DNA mutations are responsible for diseases found in our suspects. Chromosomal Disorders- An abnormal condition due to something unusual in an individual's chromosomes.These were shown in our pedigree charts, karyotypes, and showed DNA mutations. For example, Theresa Terra having Down Syndrome is a chromosomal disorder.
Genetics Vocab
Reflection
Throughout this project I learned many valuable skills. I learned how to cooperate better as a team and spread out work equally. While creating our google slides presentation, my group and I evenly split up work. Although I was sick two days before we presented, we still managed to pull through and practice our presentation out loud smoothly without having to look at our slides. I enjoyed improving my work ethic by creating an end goal for everyday. I worked hard and did not become off task in order to create a positive work ethic.