Introduction:

In the previous lesson we discussed that each animal had its own unique track and reasons for the differences. In this lesson we will extend track exploration by examining more closely the Human track. This will consist of examining our fingerprints as a component of the track.
 
 

Brief Description:

This activity explores the different types of fingerprints, what they are used for, and why they are useful. This is accomplished through recording your own fingerprints using lead and scotch tape and comparing them to the class prints and the display which demonstrates the variety of shapes possible (Whorl, loop, and arch).
 
 

Materials:

Roll of scotch tape

Lead pencil

White paper (preferably unlined)

Poster demonstrating types of fingerprints (optional)
 
 

Lesson Procedure:

Types of fingerprints: Whorl, loop, and arch -More in depth (loop, pocked loop, double arch, arch, tent arch, and mixed.

What are fingerprints?

• "An impression of the lines on the inner surface of the thumb or fingerprints used as a means of identification."
• Fingerprints are permanent details that are created before you are born. They do not change unless they are scarred, affected by skin disease, or after death.
• No two fingerprints are the same, not even on the same person or on identical twins.
• How are fingerprints left on objects?
• Fat residue from fingers
• Can be left like a stamp in a substance such as paint or lead as we will see in the activity.
• Amino acids can also be left from the fingers.

Activity Procedure:

1. Instruct students to trace their own hands and ask them what they notice.

2. Explain how this is becoming a deeper investigation of tracks.

3. Ask the students to hypothesize whether or not they think the prints of every finger will be the same.

4. Have students scribble a small patch of lead onto a sheet of paper using a pencil.

5. Then rub finger or thumb over the mark until a sufficient amount of lead is on the finger.

6. After the finger is thoroughly coated have a partner hold a piece of scotch tape and firmly press it against your finger.

7. Place the tape onto a white piece of paper so that the fingerprint shows up better.

8. The students will do this for all of their fingers and establish their fingerprint pattern.

9. The students will determine their pattern by looking at the poster and deciphering which print most resembles each of their own.

10. Was the print the same for each finger?

11. Teacher will present a print for a given finger and say that a crime has been committed.

12. The class will have to determine who could possibly be a suspect on the basis of finger print type on the finger.

13. Teacher will ask who could possibly be a suspect if they had a whorl on their finger etc.

14. Explain that the standard for matching prints is a science and is regulated by law. The standards vary from country to country. For example some European countries require that as many as 15 points match on the print where in the U.S. is regulated and determined by each individual experts opinion.
 
 

Conclusion:

Homework assignment:

What have you learned about diversity?
 
 
 
 

Bibliography:

The Winston Dictionary for Schools Holt, Rinehart and Winston. New York: 1967.

Fingerprints: http://www.fingerprints.demon.nl/schedule.htm