Unit 1: Developing Scientific Skills in Applied Contexts

4. Forensic Science

Forensic scientists use scientific techniques to identify and match substances and objects. Most of the work of the Forensic Science service is done to help police investigate crimes, but forensic methods can be used for other purposes: e.g. to study archaeological specimens, to investigate the cause of an industrial or road accident, or to show whether or not people are related. Many types of materials and objects need to be investigated, so a wide variety of methods is used. The results often have to be used as evidence in a court of law, so accuracy and reliability are very important as are careful analysis, attention to detail, and careful reporting of observations and results.

Unit 2: Science At Work In Applied Contexts

You will also need to consider how scientists developed theories, and raise questions and some of the issues facing both scientists and society. You will learn about:

• blood typing and DNA profiling;

B Forensic Science

Forensic science has a high profile through the media, newspapers, news items and television programmes. Forensic science work is important in the collection and the analysis of evidence both by data processing or by physical means. There are a variety of methods that are used throughout the whole process. The ultimate aim is to provide accurate and reliable evidence that can be used in a Court of Law.

11. understand that the nucleus in nearly all cells contains DNA. Analysis by 'genetic fingerprinting' can be used to show the similarity between two DNA samples, for instance in criminal and paternity cases.
12. be able to interpret data from DNA profiling and blood grouping.