June 13, 2005

Today is the first day of the Forensic Science Workshop. In her introduction, Cornelia provides a presentation exploring the different part of the science of what forensic science really is. The students are helped to understand how forensic science, as well as all other types of sciences involve collaboration. Cornelia explains that the kids will be taking part in activities that will help them understand how forensic science is important in life itself. Forensic science involves cryptology, code-breaking, entomology, facial reconstruction, osteology, morphology, pathology, taxonomy, and Questioned Document Analysis. The children seem eager and willing to answer the questions being asked and found it easy to answer many of the questions being directed to them. They also explored the eskeletons.com to learn about bone structures and before break learned about the body farm at the University of Tennessee.

After break, Monte, the newest staff member at Shodor, teaches a workshop about making observations. He begins by explaining the importance of observations for science. He asks the class what kinds of observations can be made of a box. The class then begins an activity to determine the contents of several eggs. Some of the possible tests that were used to determine the contents of the eggs were to shake, roll, and shake the egg. In groups of two, the kids recorded their observations, tested and then made an educated guess about the each egg. The kids learned that their first assumptions aren't always right.

Lastly, the kids are told to type in their reflections for today. The day seemed very productive. This ends the first day of the Forensic Science Workshop.