Welcome to Detective Academy week, camp families! We have an exciting week of activities planned for your camper to explore the world of forensic investigation. Below you will find a list of questions you can ask your child each day to learn more about our curriculum.
On Monday, we will explore crime scene basics and learn about mapping a crime scene. Campers will practice their memory and observation skills, all while investigating a “crime scene.”
- How do detectives map a crime scene?
- What clues did you uncover in the mock crime scene?
- Did you enjoy the memory matching game?
On Tuesday, we will begin learning about physical evidence. We will investigate the different types of fingerprints, and then take our own fingerprints. Campers will also explore hair and fiber evidence.
- What type of fingerprints do you have?
- How can detectives lift latent fingerprints?
- Let me see your DIY hair shaft!
On Wednesday, we will become wildlife detectives! Campers will learn how insects can help solve crimes, while also making their own detective decoder.
- How can insects help solve crimes?
- What did you learn in the horns and antlers lab?
- Show me your decoder!
On Thursday, campers will learn about DNA testing. We will make our own model DNA, extract DNA from peas, and use our skills to solve the case of the missing necklace.
- What did the pea DNA look like?
- Show me your pipe cleaner DNA!
- What happened in the Who Stole the Necklace activity?
On Friday, campers will officially become Junior Detectives. We will solve two “real” crimes at the museum by mapping crime scenes and questioning witnesses. Campers will also complete a detective obstacle course.
- What crime occurred at the museum, and how did you solve it?
- What is forensic anthropology?
- Did you finish the obstacle course?
Come back to the blog on Friday afternoon to see pictures from the week! Thank you for sending your child to Camp Explorations!