Crime science.

Forensics in the Classroom is biology for the CSI generation. Teachers, like Caitlin Engle at Norwalk High School in Connecticut, have been developing a forensics curriculum, and filling classes by creating motivating lessons and labs. These classes parallel traditional biology courses, but with a "crime solving" twist.

Unusual items add realism to discussions and case studies, such as catalog-purchased glass fragments, ammunition casings, as well as skulls and skeletons from "Bone Clones" (www.boneclones.com). Guest speakers, working in forensics, and field trips to local police departments offer real world connections.

It is best to have an advanced science teaching degree, advises Engle, who is working on a degree in molecular and cellular biology. She also says some upper level chemistry is helpful. "The best thing about my class is that I can actually see the learning happening ... instead of giving up, students have this insatiable thirst to figure out 'Why'."

If you are interested in a forensics curriculum, you can preview a similar concept for free by using Court TV's Forensics in the Classroom (FIC). It offers middle school and high school level units, developed in collaboration with the National Science Teachers Association. Teachers can register for online crimes and course supplements provided by Court TV's education division. These classes also offer ways for other subject disciplines to collaborate. Think of the language arts and social studies possibilities in a mock trial sparked by a forensic science unit. Court TV also offers a free "Forensics Day" for schools using FIC. Application information can be found at Court TV's FIC online site.

englec.npsteachers.org courttv.com/forensics curriculum/