Finding ways to engage middle schoolers in reading, comprehension, and critical thinking can be challenging. The key is using their curiosity and interest in real-world applications – forensic science lessons might be the answer.
With the right resources, you can introduce students to crime scene investigators’ techniques and tools, making students excited about learning.
This blog post shares the benefits of learning through forensic science lessons and cross-curricular ideas for using forensic science lessons. I also share two resources that provide middle school teachers with the tools they need to bring forensic science into their classrooms in an interesting and engaging way for students – and not in a way that will scare them.
The Benefits of Using Forensic Science Lessons in Middle School
Whether you want to add forensic science lessons to supplement science lessons or just want something fun for students to do before a school break or weekend, learning about how forensic science and crime scene investigation techniques are used in the real world can benefit students.
Here’s how each resource – the Crime Scene Investigations Non-Fiction Article and the Forensic Science Digital Escape Room – can introduce students to the fascinating field of forensic investigations.
They Help to Boost Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
As teachers, we love finding ways for students to use critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Forensic science lessons will teach students how scientists analyze evidence, ask questions, and make logical connections.
This can show students how important critical thinking and problem-solving skills are. These skills are not only essential for academic success but are also valuable in everyday decision-making.
Another fantastic way to teach students about critical thinking and problem-solving is through learning about fake news or current events. Learn more here: Why Teach Fake News in the Middle School ELA Classroom? and 6 Fascinating Ideas For Teaching Current Events.
They Help Students with Reading Comprehension
Reading is essential for all students to learn, but sometimes, the content they are required to read can be dull and unengaging. When using interesting and relevant topics, such as the Crime Scene Investigations Non-Fiction Article, students can work on reading comprehension without losing interest.
Working with non-fiction articles or digital escape rooms can make complex reading more accessible and engaging. For even more reading strategies, check out 10 Creative Reading Response Activity Ideas to Ignite Classroom Engagement and How to Make Reading Fun.
They Introduce Students to Real-World Applications of Science
Have you ever heard a student say, “Why do I need to learn this? What will it be used for in the real world?” Forensic science lessons show students that science isn’t limited to lab experiments but has real-world applications that solve problems.
Learning about forensic techniques can also introduce students to potential career paths and create interest in STEM fields. To learn more about career lessons for middle school, check out 5 Reasons To Use Guided Career Exploration With Middle School Students and Fun Activities For Exploring The Trades.
They Can Encourage Inquiry-Based Learning
Forensic science naturally aligns with inquiry-based learning, where students ask questions, investigate evidence, and draw conclusions. When using inquiry-based learning through forensic science lessons, students can become more active learners.
Check out 10 Ways To Make Science Class Engaging and Fun For Students for even more ways to engage students in science lessons.
They Make the Students the Detectives
One of the best parts of using forensic science in the middle school classroom is the natural way it introduces detective skills, such as inferencing, gathering evidence, and drawing conclusions. These skills are key to critical thinking.
They can be adapted to suit science lessons, ELA, math, and social studies, making forensic science lessons a flexible and valuable tool for middle school teachers. If your students love the mystery forensic science lessons bring, check out Middle School Mystery Lessons.
Forensic science lessons are a fantastic way to boost critical thinking, reading comprehension, and scientific inquiry. Whether you’re looking to introduce new science concepts or simply want an engaging activity for the end of the week, forensic science lessons are a memorable learning experience.
To start bringing forensic science lessons into your classroom, here are two resources to introduce students to forensic investigations.
Fascinating Forensic Science Lessons for Middle School
Crime Scene Investigations Non-Fiction Article
This Crime Scene Investigations Non-Fiction Article will teach students about different science techniques used by crime scene investigators. This resource contains three post-reading activities for students to practice their reading comprehension skills. This article contains an overview of the science behind solving crimes. It does not give details of real crimes.
This resource includes:
- Engaging Non-Fiction Article
- Modified and Regular Versions
- MP3 Audio Files
- 3 Post-Reading Activities
- Answer Keys
- Print and digital options
You can use this non-fiction article any time you want to explore intriguing non-fiction material with your students, as it promotes reading and critical thinking skills. It also has a teacher lesson plan and a pre-reading K-W-L chart to guide your teaching.
Here’s what teachers have said about this resource:
“Great non-fiction article! The students found it so interesting and were really into doing further research into the topic!” – Sara J.
“I first eyed the yeti article when I saw this one. It was the perfect fit for my EFL student! Not only will it spark her curiosity, it will challenge her! I might just turn her into a non fiction fan! Yay! I’m sure I’ll also get quite an interesting conversation out of her! Goal achieved! Thank you!” – Carolyn J.
You can find the Crime Scene Investigations Non-Fiction Article on Shopify CAD or Teachers Pay Teachers USD. This resource is also included in the Article of the Week Full Year Non-fiction Bundle, which contains 44 high-interest, levelled articles and 41 graphic organizers. You can find it on Shopify CAD or Teachers Pay Teachers USD.
Forensic Science Digital Escape Room
This Forensic Science Digital Escape Room allows students to work independently or with their peers to solve 11 forensic science-themed challenges (“locks”). Students must solve the required challenges to solve the crime of their principal’s missing car.
To solve each challenge, participants will use their reading and listening comprehension skills and general knowledge about forensic science (working dogs, fingerprints, footprints, etc.). This activity is perfect for 6th, 7th, or 8th graders because it helps build community and engages students in social-emotional learning.
This digital escape room is not scary and does not involve real crimes except for a cat who steals.
This resource includes:
- Digital Escape Room with 11 Forensic Science-Themed Challenges
- Detailed Teacher Directions
- Answer Key
- Student Instructions
- Reflection Questions
Here’s what teachers have said about this resource:
“I purchased this product for my middle school summer camp, and it was a fantastic decision! The activities were engaging, and the kids loved completing all of the activities. The clear directions made it easy to follow, allowing campers to think critically as they pieced together clues. This product was a hit, and I will definitely use it again in future camps! Highly recommend for educators looking to add a fun, educational twist to their programming.” – Big Bang Science
“This was really fun and engaging for the second last week of school! The students loved completing the tasks and it was really cute and not too scary or anything for my grade 6s. I will be keeping this in my backpocket for next year too for sure! Very fun and easy to use!” – Ms. C
You can find the Forensic Science Digital Escape Room on Shopify CAD or Teachers Pay Teachers USD.
Forensic science lessons allow students to explore scientific concepts, practice detective skills, and see the relevance of their learning in their everyday lives. With resources like the Crime Scene Investigations Non-Fiction Article and the Forensic Science Digital Escape Room, you can bring the excitement of real-world investigation into the classroom and let students have fun along the way.
Genealogical DNA Tests
How accurate are at-home DNA tests – and can they tell you everything about your ancestry? In this engaging media literacy and consumer awareness lesson, students explore the reliability of genealogical DNA testing through the fascinating case of identical twins receiving different results.
Perfect for middle school Science, this cross-curricular resource encourages students to question scientific claims in marketing while supporting curriculum expectations in science, media literacy, and health education. It’s also an excellent introductory lesson for the Cells Unit in Grade 8 science.
Here’s what teachers have said about this resource:
“This was a great addition to my Bio and Forensic Science classes, when we learn about DNA and how DNA testing works, what it’s purpose is, etc.” – Science 300
“My students loved this resource. Very engaging.” – Katrina C.
You can find this Genealogical DNA Tests resource on Shopify CAD or Teachers Pay Teachers USD.
Dog DNA Tests
If your students love dogs, they’ll be instantly hooked by this free engaging lesson on Dog DNA tests! Designed for Grades 6–8, this media literacy and consumer awareness resource explores how companies market dog DNA testing kits, and whether the results truly match the claims. Students will play a Google Slides™ dog breeds game and reflect on the accuracy of DNA testing through the lens of consumer responsibility.
Here’s what teachers have said about this resource:
“This free lesson was an excellent addition to my emergency sub plans binder!” – Isbel S.
“Excellent resource to support students Media Literacy Skills.” – steven Walker
You can find this free Dog DNA Tests resource on Shopify CAD or Teachers Pay Teachers USD.
Do You Teach Middle School Science?
Find resources for Grades 6, 7 and 8 science from 2 Peas and a Dog.
- Grade 6 Science Resources – Find them on Shopify CAD or Teachers Pay Teachers USD
- Grade 7 Science Resources – Find them on Shopify CAD or Teachers Pay Teachers USD
- Grade 8 Science Resources – Find them on Shopify CAD or Teachers Pay Teachers USD
Additional Science Resources:
- Middle School Science Sub Plans Students Will Love
- 10 Ways To Make Science Class Engaging and Fun For Students
- Why Integrate Science Digital Escape Rooms Into Your Classroom?
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