Biology class takes on CSI
Students of AP Biology dive into the forensic evidence to produce data and results under the supervision of teacher Mr. Walker.
From the time after the AP test May 13, until the end of the year, the AP biology class will transform the lab into a crime scene headquarters.
Rather than just watching movies, CSI renews students’ scientific intrigue after a long and meticulous year studying for the AP exam.
“CSI is a chance for students to experience what forensic science is,” AP and honors biology teacher Karl Walker said. “It is a high interest topic and it is 100 percent lab-based.”
Due to the presence of labs on the AP test, biology students are limited to the twelve, two-day core labs set forth by the College Board, even despite a movement to include more laboratory and experimental material on the AP test.
However, because AP Biology is still technically a lab oriented class, CSI is an exciting way for students to practice lab techniques otherwise limited or absent in their year.
“The areas we study include fingerprinting, hair and fiber analysis, soil analysis, drug analysis and document analysis,” Walker said.
Armed with equipment similar, if not identical to any criminology lab in the country, students act realistically like forensic scientists using microscopes, printing dust and magnifying glasses to run through a number of lifelike scenarios. Most importantly though, the class still focuses on the principles of scientific reasoning.
“It’s still legitimate science,” Walker said.
But the reality of the activity is not meant to overplay the enjoyment of the labs.
“I like how we can have fun, but still stay interested in science,” sophomore AP student Harper Moore said. “It beats what we did before the AP test.”
Walker also added a trout releasing trip in previous year, but the size of the class this year, nearly quadrupling from last year, prevented such an excursion this year.
CSI’s mix of fun and curriculum stand alone among AP classes. Usually choosing just one of the latter options, teachers conclude their year with the AP test, and often leave students in the cold. But Walker decided to go his own way and do best for his students.
“CSI is my chance to do something different.”
