Summer SAVY, Session 1 Day 2, Crime Lab Chemistry (3rd-4th)
Piecing Together Clues: Day 2 of Crime Lab Chemistry-“Who Borrowed Mr. Bear?”
With the mystery deepening, Day 2 of our investigation brought a surge of energy and curiosity to our young detectives. Building on the initial evidence from Day 1, students returned to the scene with sharpened minds and a renewed determination to uncover the truth behind Mr. Bear’s disappearance.
🔍 Forensic Focus: Analyzing the Evidence
Today’s spotlight was on forensic science. Students examined:
- Chromatography tests to compare a substance found at the crime scene with samples from an ice cube tray using pH strips.
- Fiber analysis to match materials found on Mr. Bear at the scene.
- Smudged fingerprints, which sparked debate over partial matches and possible misdirection.
Each piece of evidence brought new theories—and new disagreements. Was the fiber from a shirt or a sweater? Did the footprint suggest a hurried escape or a planted clue?
🧠 Reasoning in Action: Paul’s Reasoning Wheel
Students explored Paul’s Reasoning Wheel, focusing on the element of exploration. As they sifted through clues, they practiced:
- Making inferences from limited data.
- Questioning assumptions about suspects and motives.
- Analyzing perspectives to understand how bias might affect their conclusions.
This framework helped students think like real investigators—curious, critical, and open to new possibilities.
🗂️ Creating Case Files & Cracking Codes
In a twist of digital investigation, students participated in a digital escape room, where they had to solve a mystery by unlocking clues hidden in a virtual environment. This immersive experience challenged their logic, teamwork, and attention to detail.
Simultaneously, each team began compiling a case file—inclusive of witnesses, fingerprints, knowledge of famous detectives, crime scene photos, and DNA analysis. These files became living documents, evolving as new information emerged and old assumptions were challenged.
🎤 Interrogations & Collaboration
Interrogation sessions were a highlight of the day. Students practiced crafting thoughtful, probing questions and identifying inconsistencies in clues/evidence. One suspect, once considered trustworthy, was viewed to crack under pressure—was it guilt or just nerves?
Through collaboration, students shared insights, debated theories, and refined their understanding of the case. The atmosphere was electric with possibility.
🧩 Reflecting on the Mystery
As Day 2 closed, the mystery remained unsolved—but the detectives were closer than ever. Theories were stronger, evidence more organized, and the team more united.
💭 Reflective Questions for Students:
- What piece of evidence do you believe is most important—and why?
- How did your thinking change after analyzing the forensic results?
- What assumptions did you make early on that you’ve now reconsidered?
- How did working with others help (or challenge) your investigation?
- What skills from Paul’s Reasoning Wheel did you use most today?
- If you could ask one more question of a suspect, what would it be?
Tomorrow, we will chase the final clues. Will the truth about Mr. Bear finally come to light? Stay tuned for Day 3!
Watch this video to offer additional insight: CSI: Who Did It? | Science Trek- https://youtu.be/PJlplQpPl6E?si=logE4EzwPTMwrC_K