Fingerprinting

Age

Middle School, High School

Format

Hands-on

Matierials

Inkpad

Charcoal

Magnifying lens

Laminated evidence

Fingerprinting worksheet

Baby wipes

Safety Precautions

Science Theatre demonstrators must keep the safety of themselves and their audience in mind at all times. All Science Theatre demonstrators must have read through the Safety Training page. The ST Safety Box with first aid kit, fire extinguisher, etc. should always be available to demonstrators. Always wear safety gloves, glasses, and a labcoat if handling chemicals; always perform potentially dangerous demonstrations at a safe distance from the audience; and always keep a very close eye on any volunteers you call from the audience.

Preparation

Most materials will be kept in the boxes marked 'Forensics' along with a printed copy of these instructions.

Demonstration

I. Introduction

Introduce Science Theatre and this demo. If using this demo with the crime scene, explain the story behind the crime. A copy of this is found in the Forensic boxes.

II. Fingerprint Basics

a) Patterns

First explain the different types and patterns of fingerprints.

Loops:

Present in 60-70% of the population.

Radial loops begin and end in the direction of the thumb and are very uncommon. They are usually found on index fingers.

Ulnar loops begin and end in the direction of the pinky/little finger.

III. How to Roll a Fingerprint

IV. Extraction Methods