The Case of the Stolen Painting: A Forensic Mystery

This video was conceived around the idea that students, particularly those not in AP-level classes, have a practical application for knowing about the major divisions between plants, particularly about the details of plant anatomy and reproduction.

My objectives for this lesson are as follows:

  • Students will be able to identify the major evolutionary innovations that separate plant divisions, and classify plants as belonging to one of those divisions based on phenotypic differences in plants.
  • Students will be able to classify plants by their pollen dispersal methods using pollen dispersal mapping, and justify the location of a "crime scene" using map analysis.
Extension:
  • Students will be able to analyze and present their analysis of banding patterns from DNA fingerprinting done using plants in a forensic context.
For the lesson, students will need to be familiar with the idea that living things are related, that these relationships are part of organisms' evolutionary history; that there are types of plants; and that DNA can be used to establish similarities and differences between individuals and species. It will also be helpful for them to know that increased genetic diversity will increase a species' likelihood of survival. The lesson will take approximately 135 minutes (one 90 period, one 45 minute period), with some material assigned as homework. Materials needed: Paper, writing utensils, color printing is ideal.
Resource ID#: 37761 Type: Lesson Plan
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Direct Link: http://blossoms.mit.edu/videos/lessons/case_stolen_painting_forensic_mystery

General Information

Subject(s): Science
Grade Level(s): 9, 10, 11, 12
Intended Audience: Educators educators
Suggested Technology: Computer for Presenter, Computers for Students, Internet Connection, LCD Projector, Overhead Projector
Instructional Time: 2 Hour(s)
Keywords: Forensic science, plant divisions, plant structures, plant functions, plant reproduction, plant phenotypes, pollen, pollen dispersal, pollen dispersal mapping, DNA mapping, DNA banding, plants, angiosperm, gymnosperm, pteridophyte, fungi, algae, bryophyte
Instructional Component Type(s): Lesson Plan,  Worksheet,  Problem-Solving Task,  Video/Audio/Animation,  Instructional Technique,  Professional Development
Instructional Design Framework(s): Structured Inquiry (Level 2), Cooperative Learning
Resource Collection: MIT BLOSSOMS

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