The main goal of this day was to teach the students the importance of substances and DNA in crime scene investigation. Jason illustrated the importance of identifying evidence from crime scenes by analyzing common substances through substance identification. Also, the class extracted DNA from onions and explained how DNA contributes to suspect identification. Another important aspect explained, was the process of body decomposition. Ross Broadnax used a VenSim model to show this process. The students then were given the opportunity to make a model of this process.
The students also began examining handwritten material and discussed methods of encoding and decoding with the Caesar Cipher. The Caesar Cipher is one of the simplest and most widely known encryption techniques. The students analyzed signatures and determined the validity of a given example. The class participated in an activity in which they had to decode an encrypted message. Jason was very good at explaining the importance of each example of the day.