Forensic Novel Portfolio               Your Name (Insert text here)

Title of the novel: (Insert text here)

Author: (Insert text here)

Date of Publication: (Insert text here)

Publisher: (Insert text here)

Any novel that is of interest to you is fair game. The teacher has several novels to choose from if you do not have one of your own. This assessment will be in the form of a portfolio you will compile. The assessment is NOT a typical book report but will include the following sections and is to be compiled in a stapled packet with each section clearly labeled and clearly hand written or typed.

I. Set the Scene in History:

            Describe the time period in history and the location of the setting. Include information about popular music, food, political hot potatoes of the time.  News clippings and webpage links can be inserted here. Also photos are a great addition to this section but will not replace your description/explanation.

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II. Status of Forensic Science

            What is the status of Forensic Science during this time period? Has DNA evidence been accepted by the courts or even developed yet? What are the capabilities in the lab of examining evidence collected at the scene of the crime?

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III. Overview of the Crime(s) in the Novel

            Describe the crime and suspects that are developed by the author.

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IV. Forensic Professionals in the Novel

Describe the Forensic professionals that have lead roles in the story.  Describe their job, training and professional background. Explain their importance to the resolution of the investigation.

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V. Catalogue of the Forensic Sciences

            A. Describe all the crime scenes that appear in the novel. Do this in chronological order as they are revealed in the plot.

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            B. Cite specific forensic examinations in the text and describe the legal value of each test. Give details and evidence!

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VI. Criminology and Victimology

A.     Describe the behavioral profile of the suspect developed by the investigators.

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B.     Was the perpetrator “organized” or “disorganized”?

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C.    Describe the victimology strategy of the perpetrator (who were his/her victims)?

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VII. Legal Aspects

            How was the case resolved? Were any legal issues raised specific to the chain of custody or contamination of evidence? What charges will be brought if any?

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VII. Reflection

            How would the resolution of the case be different with the current scientific techniques? What are your impressions of the story in terms of authentic detective and scientific investigation?

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