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).

Content Explored:

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.
 
 

Materials:

Roll of scotch tape

Lead pencil

White paper (preferably unlined)

Poster demonstrating types of fingerprints (optional)
 
 

Procedure:

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Teacher will present a print and say that a crime has been committed.

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

Bibliography:

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

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