Detective Day / Crime Scene Investigation
Crime Scene Investigation
Children examine footprints, hair samples and ink tests to work out which suspect is behind a mock crime, practising careful observation and logical reasoning.
How to run it
- Set up a taped-off crime scene with footprints, a hair sample and a mystery note.
- Give each suspect a pen, shoe print and hair sample to compare against the evidence.
- Show teams how to run ink chromatography by dotting pen ink on filter paper and dipping the end in water.
- Have teams record findings in a case file and name their culprit with reasons.
You will need
- water-soluble markers
- filter paper or coffee filters
- cups of water
- paper footprints or shoe prints
- magnifying glasses
- case file sheets
Make it easier or harderGive younger children only two suspects and one test; add a fake alibi to check for older children.
My Time Our Place · Outcome 4Children use scientific testing and reasoning to draw conclusions from evidence.
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