Forensics class

Students in AHS’ forensic science class performed a blood spatter lab Friday (2/26) outdoors.   They used imitation blood to simulate spatter patterns while walking and running.   They learned that the speed of the person’s gait affects the shape of the spatter markings (more circular or more oval) and that the “spines” extending out from the primary blood drop can tell investigators which way the person is moving.   Mathematical equation(s) can then be used to find the person’s approximate speed.

AHS forensic science is currently in its second year in Fulton County BOE curriculum.   It is a senior elective in which students earn credit towards their science graduation requirement.   Students study a variety of CSI type topics including, but not limited to blood spatter analysis, DNA analysis, fingerprints, hair and fiber evidence, glass, handwriting and document evidence, fire/ arson, firearms/ ballistics, etc.