Honours Programme Update

This term in the Honours Programme, the students are investigating several forensic science techniques that are used by law enforcement agencies. These lessons build upon the students’ knowledge gained in Term 1, legal precedence and in Term 2, the foundations of scientific thinking.

Students are bolstering their critical thinking and analytic skills by using first-hand investigations to understand how these techniques aid in crime scene investigations. In groups, they are tasked with researching a famous case and creating a mini documentary (à la Netflix), highlighting the ways that forensic techniques helped solve a crime. This assessment will showcase their creativity and communication skills as they will be delving into the world of documentary making and dramatic enactments – with the help of drama teacher, Ms. Van Aalen.

Ms. Schiffmann and I have been blown away by the engagement and high-level questions shown by the honours students as we tackle a new forensic technique each week.

Year 8 Honours – Creating tread marks and identifying shoes by their unique patterns.

Year 9 Honours – Analysing ‘unique trace markers’ such as fingerprints and ink chromatography.

Year 10 – Analysing how blood spatter can tell a story based on height, size and angle.

This term, many of the Honours students have had the opportunity to participate in external academic competitions like the AMC Maths competition and the ICAS exams.

As I read through the string theory essays the students submitted last term, I am so impressed with the level of analysis and knowledge the students have been able to communicate through their writing.

Rhys Briscoe
High Potential Coordinator