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Signature Assignment BIOL 2301/2101 Human Anatomy & Physiology I

DEM Bones Forensics Analysis

Course

Assignment Title

Assignment ID (to be assigned)

Outcomes/Rubrics to O Communicationbe Assessed by the o Critical ThinkingAssignment o Empirical and Quantitative Reasoning

o Teamwork

Assignment Description

Students will have one lab period to collaborate and work in teams in lab to analyze the bones of a single assigned victim in order to …

• Collect evidence needed to determine the sex of a skeleton frompelvic morphological distinctions

• Collect evidence to determine the sex of a skeleton from skullmorphological distinctions

• Measure the femur of their assigned victim• Use visuals to orally discuss findings and record observations

regarding pathology and traumaIndependently, students will use quantitative reasoning and critical thinking to …

• Explain what is meant by deviation and range• Determine the estimated height of their victim• Develop a regression calculation for estimating height• Use deviation between measured and calculated values as a basis

of assessing accuracy of the formulas• Analyze observations to determine pathology and/or trauma of

the victimIndependently, students will demonstrate communication skills by reporting their findings in the form of a lab report. Have them complete the lab report answer sheet template. The students will include a written summary of conclusions based on evidence in the report.

Parameters/Logistics (for faculty, specific parameters or logistics when implementing)

• (Do not remove, standard for all courses) The assignment must becollected through an “Assignment” content item in Blackboard. Facultyelecting to use Turnitin may do so, but students will need to submit thedocument twice: first to the Bb “Assignment” content item and secondto Turnitin.

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• (Do not remove, standard for all courses) The assignment assesses anoutcome included in the syllabus for the course; thus, all assignmentsshould be included as a regular grade in the course. The assignmentshould not be considered optional, extra-credit, or a bonus activity.

Part 1 (for students, to be copied and pasted into the Blackboard Assignment item) Assignment Title Dem Bones Forensic Analysis Aligned Outcomes

Critical Thinking, Communication, Empirical and Quantitative Reasoning

Description Work as a team in lab to analyze the bones of an assigned victim to…

• Determine the sex of a skeleton from pelvicmorphological distinctions

• Determine the sex of a skeleton from skullmorphological distinctions

• Measure the femur of your victim• Use visuals to orally discuss findings and record

observations regarding pathology and traumaIndependently, use quantitative reasoning and critical thinking to …

• Determine the estimated height of your victim• Explain what is meant by deviation and range• Use deviation as a basis between measured and

calculated values as a basis of assessingaccuracy of the formulas for bone height

• Analyze observations to determine pathologyand/or trauma of the victim

Independently, students will demonstrate communication skills by reporting their findings in the form of a lab report. They will complete the lab report answer sheet template provided to them. The students will include a written summary of conclusions based on evidence in the report. Students will be provided with instructions on how to complete a lab report, a lab report template, and a copy of the score sheet.

Notes (for faculty,do not include in Bb)

Post the Dem Bones Forensic analysis assignment, lab report answer sheet, and grading rubric in Bb. The assignment has instructions for each station in lab where students will analyze bones or X rays. Each team will be assigned a victim or victims to analyze. They may use the bones of other victims for comparative purposes, but they are not required to analyze those bones. Have students

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rotate to each station to complete the activities in one lab period. Each student will then complete the lab report which includes a summary of findings and conclusions based on evidence. Add this assignment to the Bb and align it to the outcomes. Students will submit the lab report electronically using the Assignment function.

Part 2 (for students, to be copied and pasted into the Blackboard Assignment item) Assignment Title Teamwork Reflection for Forensic Analysis Aligned Outcomes

Teamwork

Description After completing your Dem Bones Forensic Analysis Lab Report, reflect on your role, interaction, and contributions to your group. Open the attached document; save it to your computer, and answer each question. For each question, be sure to give specific examples and details; describe specific interactions you had with your group and individual group members that address the question. Save the document with your G00 number-Teamwork.

Notes (for faculty,do not include in Bb)

The “Teamwork Reflection Prompt Questions” document should be attached to the Assignment for students to download.

The students will address five questions relating to their contributions, role(s), and interactions. They will submit a typed document with a minimum of one page and maximum of two pages, addressing the five questions/prompts.

Add another Assignment to the Bb for the Teamwork Reflection submission. Align it to the teamwork outcome. Have students submit their reflection electronically using the Assignment feature in Bb.

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GENERAL EDUCATION OUTCOME ASSESSMENT EXAMPLE, “SIGNATURE ASSIGNMENT for 2301/2101”

Using the assignment design worksheets and faculty-approved general education rubrics for Critical Thinking, Communication, Empirical and Quantitative Reasoning, and Teamwork, this is a proposed signature assignment for BIOL 2301/2101.

Course & Plan Information Course Rubric/Number BIOL 2301/2101 Course Title Human Anatomy & Physiology I Component Area Biology Outcomes assessed (per district-wide syllabus)

Critical Thinking, Communication, Empirical and Quantitative Reasoning, Teamwork

Effective Date Fall 2018 Summary (for faculty, expository explanation of assignment)

Students will have one lab period to collaborate and work in teams in lab to analyze the bones of a single assigned victim in order to …

• Collect evidence needed to determine the sex of a skeleton from pelvic morphologicaldistinctions

• Collect evidence to determine the sex of a skeleton from skull morphological distinctions• Measure the femur of their assigned victim• Use visuals to orally discuss findings and record observations regarding pathology and trauma

Independently, students will use quantitative reasoning and critical thinking to … • Explain what is meant by deviation and range• Determine the estimated height of their victim• Develop a regression calculation for estimating height• Use deviation between measured and calculated values as a basis of assessing accuracy of

the formulas• Analyze observations to determine pathology and/or trauma of the victim

Independently, students will demonstrate communication skills by reporting their findings in the form of a lab report. Have them complete the lab report answer sheet template. The students will include a written summary of conclusions based on evidence in the report.

Parameters/Logistics (for faculty, specific parameters or logistics when implementing)

• (Do not remove, standard for all courses) The assignment must be collected through an “Assignment”content item in Blackboard. Faculty electing to use Turnitin may do so, but students will need tosubmit the document twice: first to the Bb “Assignment” content item and second to Turnitin.

• (Do not remove, standard for all courses) The assignment assesses an outcome included in thesyllabus for the course; thus, all assignments should be included as a regular grade in the course. Theassignment should not be considered optional, extra-credit, or a bonus activity.

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Part 1 (for students, to be copied and pasted into the Blackboard Assignment item) Assignment Title Dem Bones Forensic Analysis Aligned Outcomes Critical Thinking, Communication, Empirical and Quantitative Reasoning Description Work as a team in lab to analyze the bones of an assigned victim to…

• Determine the sex of a skeleton from pelvic morphological distinctions• Determine the sex of a skeleton from skull morphological distinctions• Measure the femur of your victim• Use visuals to orally discuss findings and record observations regarding

pathology and traumaIndependently, use quantitative reasoning and critical thinking to …

• Determine the estimated height of your victim• Explain what is meant by deviation and range• Use deviation as a basis between measured and calculated values as a

basis of assessing accuracy of the formulas for bone height• Analyze observations to determine pathology and/or trauma of the

victimIndependently, students will demonstrate communication skills by reporting their findings in the form of a lab report. They will complete the lab report answer sheet template provided to them. The students will include a written summary of conclusions based on evidence in the report. Students will be provided with instructions on how to complete a lab report, a lab report template, and a copy of the score sheet.

Notes (for faculty, do not include in Bb)

Post the Dem Bones Forensic analysis assignment, lab report answer sheet, and grading rubric in Bb. The assignment has instructions for each station in lab where students will analyze bones or X rays. Each team will be assigned a victim or victims to analyze. They may use the bones of other victims for comparative purposes, but they are not required to analyze those bones. Have students rotate to each station to complete the activities in one lab period. Each student will then complete the lab report which includes a summary of findings and conclusions based on evidence. Add this assignment to the Bb and align it to the outcomes. Students will submit the lab report electronically using the Assignment function.

Part 2 (for students, to be copied and pasted into the Blackboard Assignment item) Assignment Title Teamwork Reflection for Forensic Analysis Aligned Outcomes Teamwork Description After completing your Dem Bones Forensic Analysis Lab Report, reflect on your role,

interaction, and contributions to your group. Open the attached document; save it to your computer, and answer each question. For each question, be sure to give specific examples and details; describe specific interactions you had with your group and individual group members that address the question. Save the document with your G00 number-Teamwork.

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Notes (for faculty, do not include in Bb)

The “Teamwork Reflection Prompt Questions” document should be attached to the Assignment for students to download.

The students will address five questions relating to their contributions, role(s), and interactions. They will submit a typed document with a minimum of one page and maximum of two pages, addressing the five questions/prompts.

Add another Assignment to the Bb for the Teamwork Reflection submission. Align it to the teamwork outcome. Have students submit their reflection electronically using the Assignment feature in Bb.

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Assignment Design Worksheet: Written Communication BIOL 2301/2101 Human Anatomy & Physiology I

DEM Bones Forensics Activity

Course

Assignment Title

Assignment ID (to be assigned)

Criterion Design (How does the assignment ask students to perform in the manner expected by the criterion?)

Context of and Purpose for Writing

Instructions provided on the “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report.” A lab report should include the following sections:

Purpose of Investigation (Communication): This should describe the purpose (point) of the exercise/experiment and should include your hypothesis. Think about your audience and circumstances surrounding this report (maybe you are presenting this case to a group of forensic anthropologists, or even to a court).

Content Development

Instructions provided on the “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report.” Methodology and Evidence Examined (Communication): In this section, briefly describe what steps were taken and carried out to investigate the case. Be specific. This section needs to be in paragraph form. This section should be written so that a person who has no knowledge of anatomy, physiology or forensic analysis should be able to recreate the exercise/experiment. The write- up of the methods should be similar to a detailed recipe. A person who has never done this lab should be able to read this section and know exactly what equipment and supplies are needed and how to perform the experiment.

and

Conclusions (Critical Thinking, Communication): Write a detailed summary of ALL findings and comprehensive summative conclusions that clearly connect the evidence with your conclusions. In this case, be sure to back up ALL of your conclusions and inferences that you made about your victim with the evidence (data) you collected. Identify any assumptions that you made during the investigation. Account for any and all discrepancies in your findings as well.

Genre and Disciplinary Conventions

Instructions provided on the “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report.” Students are asked to submit a lab report based on a provided template that specifies the required sections.

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Sources and Evidence

Instructions provided on the “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report.”

References (Communication): In this section, be sure to reference ALL websites/books/etc. used to help write any of this report. This section is to be in APA format and ALL references need to be cited in the lab report following APA format.

Control of Syntax and Mechanics

Instructions provided on the “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report” Score Sheet.

Communication – Syntax and mechanics: Was the written report and summary conclusion free of spelling and grammatical errors?

Readability of Visual Elements

Instructions provided on the “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report” Score Sheet.

Communication - Was the written report and summary conclusion completed in a thorough manner using the format for an investigative report? Were observations/evidence presented clearly and in an effective manner?

Relevance, Accuracy, and Integration of Visual Elements

Instructions provided on the “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report” Score Sheet.

Communication - Was the written report and summary conclusion completed in a thorough manner using the format for an investigative report? Were observations/evidence presented clearly and in an effective manner?

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Assignment Design Worksheet: Critical Thinking BIOL 2301/2101 Human Anatomy & Physiology I DEM Bones Forensics Analysis

Course

Assignment Title

Assignment ID (to be assigned)

Criterion Design (How does the assignment ask students to perform in the manner expected by the criterion?)

Explanation of Issues

Instructions provided on the “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report.”

Purpose of Investigation (Communication): This should describe the purpose (point) of the exercise/experiment and should include your hypothesis. Think about your audience and circumstances surrounding this report (maybe you are presenting this case to a group of forensic anthropologists, or even to a court).

Evidence Students will have one lab period to collaborate and work in teams in lab to analyze the bones of a single assigned victim in order to …

• Collect evidence needed to determine the sex of a skeleton frompelvic morphological distinctions

• Collect evidence to determine the sex of a skeleton from skullmorphological distinctions

• Measure the femur of their assigned victim• Use visuals to orally discuss findings and record observations

regarding pathology and traumaIndependently, students will use quantitative reasoning and critical thinking to …

• Explain what is meant by deviation and range• Determine the estimated height of their victim• Use deviation between measured and calculated values as a basis

of assessing accuracy of the formulas• Analyze observations to determine pathology and/or trauma of

the victim

Additionally, instructions provided on the “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report.” Methodology and Evidence Examined (Communication, Critical Thinking): In this section, briefly describe what steps were taken and carried out to investigate the case. Be specific. This section needs to be in paragraph form. This section should be written so that a person who has no knowledge of anatomy, physiology or forensic analysis should be able to recreate the exercise/experiment. The write-up of the methods should be similar to a

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detailed recipe. A person who has never done this lab should be able to read this section and know exactly what equipment and supplies are needed and how to perform the experiment.

Activity IV: Analysis for Pathological and Physiological Changes is a record of collected evidence to support observed pathologies/physiological changes.

Influence of Context and Assumptions

Activity III, Part B: Inferring Your Height from Femur Length 4. Propose factors other than gender that might influence the formulas

used for calculating height based on femur length.5. How might you increase the accuracy of your height determination?

and

Instructions provided on the “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report.”

Measurements and Calculations (Quantitative Reasoning): Any measurements taken and any calculations made should be included. For example, this lab requires the calculation for estimating the victim’s height using a regression formula that is appropriate to the sex of the victim. Students must also infer their height by measuring one of their bones. Include the measurements, all calculations (including for conversions), and clearly state the possible height range. Definitions, deviations, and any influencing factors should also be included.

Student’s Position Instructions provided on the “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report.” Purpose of Investigation (Communication): This should describe the purpose (point) of the exercise/experiment and should include your hypothesis. Think about your audience and circumstances surrounding this report (maybe you are presenting this case to a group of forensic anthropologists, or even to a court).

Conclusions and Related Outcomes

Instructions provided on the “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report.” Conclusions (Critical Thinking, Communication): Write a detailed summary of ALL findings and comprehensive summative conclusions that clearly connect the evidence with your conclusions. In this case, be sure to back up ALL of your conclusions and inferences that you made about your victim with the evidence (data) you collected. Identify any assumptions that you made during the investigation. Account for any and all discrepancies in your findings as well.

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Assignment Design Worksheet: Empirical & Quantitative Reasoning (EQR)

BIOL 2301/2101 Human Anatomy & Physiology I

DEM Bones Forensics Activity

Course

Assignment Title

Assignment ID (to be assigned)

Criterion Design (How does the assignment ask students to perform in the manner expected by the criterion?)

Interpretation Instructions provided on the “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report.” Conclusions (Critical Thinking, Communication, and Empirical & Quantitative Reasoning): Write a detailed summary of ALL findings and comprehensive summative conclusions that clearly connect the evidence with your conclusions. In this case, be sure to back up ALL of your conclusions and inferences that you made about your victim with the evidence (data) you collected. Identify any assumptions that you made during the investigation. Account for any and all discrepancies in your findings as well.

Representation Instructions provided on the “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report.” Conclusions (Critical Thinking, Communication, and Empirical & Quantitative Reasoning): Write a detailed summary of ALL findings and comprehensive summative conclusions that clearly connect the evidence with your conclusions. In this case, be sure to back up ALL of your conclusions and inferences that you made about your victim with the evidence (data) you collected. Identify any assumptions that you made during the investigation. Account for any and all discrepancies in your findings as well

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Calculation or Transformation

Activity III: HEIGHT ESTIMATION (Empirical & Quantitative Reasoning) Anthropologists estimate the height of individuals by measuring specific bones. There is a link between measuring the length of certain bones and the height of the individual. This connection (also known as regression) is consistent enough for a person’s height to be inferred. Measure the length of the femur and, using the height estimation data given below (Bass 1987), provide a range of estimated height:

A. Height Estimation Using the Found Femur (femur from bones found by the dog inthe case)

Male regression formula: (2.32 × length of the femur in cm.) + 65.53 ± 3.94 Female regression formula: (2.47. × length of the femur in cm.) + 54.10 ± 3.72

Length of femur: cm

Calculation using regression formula:

Range of estimated height in cm: Covert the height to inches. 1 inch = 2.54 cm Calculation: Range of estimated height in inches:

Explain what is meant by deviation.

B. Inferring Your Height from Femur LengthHave your partner measure your femur with a meter stick or measuring tape.Calculate your height in centimeters (cm) using the femur measurement. Measureyour height in cm and determine the deviation from the calculated height. Thedeviation is the difference between the actual height and the calculated height. (Eachgroup member should complete this activity for their femur with the help of apartner.)

Length of femur: Calculation:

Height in cm =

Deviation:

Instructions provided on the “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report.” Measurements and Calculations (Empirical & Quantitative Reasoning): Any measurements taken and any calculations made should be included. For example, this lab requires the calculation for estimating the victim’s height using a regression formula that is appropriate to the sex of the victim. Students must also infer their height by measuring one of their bones. Include the measurements, all calculations (including for conversions), and clearly state the possible height range. Definitions, deviations, and any influencing factors should also be included.

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Application/Analysis Instructions provided on the “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report.” Conclusions (Critical Thinking, Communication, and Empirical & Quantitative Reasoning): Write a detailed summary of ALL findings and comprehensive summative conclusions that clearly connect the evidence with your conclusions. In this case, be sure to back up ALL of your conclusions and inferences that you made about your victim with the evidence (data) you collected. Identify any assumptions that you made during the investigation. Account for any and all discrepancies in your findings as well

Assumptions “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report.” Were assumptions and/or discrepancies identified?

Communication “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report.” Conclusions (Critical Thinking, Communication, and Empirical & Quantitative Reasoning): Write a detailed summary of ALL findings and comprehensive summative conclusions that clearly connect the evidence with your conclusions. In this case, be sure to back up ALL of your conclusions and inferences that you made about your victim with the evidence (data) you collected. Identify any assumptions that you made during the investigation. Account for any and all discrepancies in your findings as well.

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Assignment Design Worksheet: Teamwork BIOL 2301/2101 Human Anatomy & Physiology I DEM Bones Forensics Analysis

Course

Assignment Title

Assignment ID (to be assigned)

Criterion Design (How does the assignment ask students to perform in the manner expected by the criterion?)

Contributes to Team Meetings

Teamwork Self Reflection Prompt Question 1 6. On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 being the best), how well did you contribute

to team meetings (online or face-to-face)? Using specific examples anddetails, explain your rating. What role did you play in team meetings ordiscussions (online or face-to-face)? What ideas or work did youcontribute? Consider your verbal (vocal or written tone, etc.) and nonverbalcommunication (body language, facial expressions, etc.).

Facilitates the Contributions of Team Members

Teamwork Self Reflection Prompt Question 2 7. On a scale of 1 to 10, how well did you encourage others to participate?

Using specific examples and details, explain your rating. In what ways didyou encourage or support participation by all team members?

Individual Contributions Outside of Team Meetings

Teamwork Self Reflection Prompt Question 3 8. On a scale of 1 to 10, how did you contribute to the work accomplished by

the team? Using specific examples and details, explain your rating. Explainthe assignments and the completion of the team’s responsibilities. What was your contribution to completing the project on time, and did you contribute beyond your assigned responsibilities? What were your individual contributions outside of meetings?

Fosters Constructive Team Climate

Teamwork Self Reflection Prompt Question 4 9. On a scale of 1 to 10, how well did you work with and relate to other team

members? Using specific examples and details, how did you help ormotivate team members in a positive and respectful way. What constructive feedback did you provide to team members toward the completion of the project?

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Responds to Conflict

Teamwork Self Reflection Prompt Question 5 10. On a scale of 1 to 10, how well did you contribute to resolving conflicts

within the team? Using specific examples and details, describe how yourteam resolved conflicts. How did the team discuss the issue or come to aconclusion? What was your role in that process? Remember, a conflict isnot necessarily an argument or fight; it may be a difference of opinion or adiscussion with varying viewpoints that reaches a specific conclusion.

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BIOLOGY 2301/2101 “DEM BONES”: Forensic Resurrection of a Skeleton

Objectives Work as a team of forensic anthropologists to…

• Determine the sex of a skeleton from pelvic morphological distinctions• Determine the sex of a skeleton from skull morphological distinctions• Measure the femur of your victim• Estimate the age of your victim based on morphological evidence• Use visuals to orally discuss findings and record observations regarding pathology and/or trauma of your

victim/sIndependently, use quantitative reasoning and critical thinking to …

• Explain what is meant by deviation• Determine the estimated height of your victim• Develop a regression calculation for estimating height• Analyze observations to determine pathology and/or trauma of your victim• Communicate your findings by completing the lab report template which includes a written summary of

conclusions based on findings (evidence)Materials Assorted bones: pelvic girdles, femurs, skulls, etc. Metric ruler or tape measure Photos of Bone Trauma or Pathology

Before You Begin 1. Read the Dem Bones case study written by Alease Bruce of the Department of Health and clinical

Sciences University of Massachusetts at Lowell. The Case copyright is held by the National Center forCase Study Teaching in Science, University at Buffalo, State University of New York. Originally publishedin July 9, 2001.

2. Organize your team so that you may efficiently complete the forensic investigation of the bones.Designate a quality control member, measuring expert, evidence recorder, etc. as necessary to completeto gather evidence regarding sex, height, age, pathology, and trauma.

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Dem Bones: Forensic Resurrection of a Skeleton by Alease Bruce Department of Health and Clinical Sciences University of Massachusettsat Lowell Adapted from a case study developed by Alease Bruce of the Department of Health and clinical Sciences University of Massachusetts at Lowell. The case copyright is held by the National Center for Case Study Teaching in Science, University at Buffalo, State University of New York. Originally published in July 9, 2001.

Tom McCune speaking. “Someone found what? Where? Yes, I know the area very well. Don’t touch anything. I’ll be rightover.”

ProfessorThomasMcCunewasa40-year-oldforensicanthropologistwhospecializedinskeletonizedhumanremains. Before returning to his home state of Massachusetts he had workedon high profile cases in Washington, D.C. Now he taughtosteology andanthropology at a small university andspent summersleadinganthropological digs in Mexico.

Winters were usually long and quiet in his hometown with the ground frozen solid, but in the spring the thawing earthoftenrevealed something interesting to study.Tom was excitedthat hehadbeencalledto examine anactual crime scene this time. Usually someone just gatheredupthe bones, placedthem inabagor box, andplunkedthem down on his desk at the university. He could now use his forensic training to help the police and medical examiner determine the identity of the individual from the very beginning of the case. Rule number one was to not move the body until the investigation was complete. Photograph the scene. Examine it for clues. Sift the soil. Then collect and label the bones. It had been a long time, but he rememberedthe protocol clearly.

With a surge of adrenaline pumping through his blood, Tom grabbed his camera, hopped into his aging Toyota, and headed toward the state forest. There were many nature trails through the forest. He had hiked them often, but the one off Route 1’5 was theone he sped towardtoday. The group of nondescript, monochromatic cars along the side of the road signaled that he was at the right location. Arnold Spector from the local police department met Tom and signaled him to follow. The two men walked along, cutting the brisk air with their quick strides, until they came upon an isolated trail about a mile from the road. An officer from homicide, the coroner’s office representative, and a tall slim man with a frisky dog were waiting for them.

“Hi, I’m Tom McCune. You’ve found something that you want me to look at?”

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“Yes,” answered Officer Garrett from the Homicide Unit. “This is Rob Underwood, the man who put in the 911 call. His dog found this bone.” The officer held up a large, clear plastic bag containing what was obviously a human femur.

“Where is the rest of it?” Tom asked.

“Just behindthose bushes.” Officer Garrett motioned.“We’ve secured the site. Nothing has beentouched. We haven’t even notified the press yet. We were waiting for you.”

As Tom parted the bushes, he saw very clearly an area that appeared to be a partially uncovered grave. From a shallow depression in the soft earth protruded the entire half of a human pelvic bone, probably exposed by the dog. The acetabulum lay empty, missing its femur, which had been removed by the dog. The remains obviously had been there for some time.

Tom positioned his camera and began photographing the scene. A search of the area yielded no further clues-- no remnants of clothing, no signs of a disturbance–just the bones.

“Without personal effects, this is going to be a tough case,” Tom thought.

The next task was to collect and label each bone. Afterward the grounds would be sifted for additional clues. It would be up to Tom, the forensic anthropologist, to determine the age and sex of the individual and to look for signs of trauma. What secrets would these bones reveal?

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ACTIVITY I: SEX DETERMINATION FROM PELVIC MORPHOLOGY (Teamwork & Communication) Help Tom McCune determine the sex of the skeleton by identifying the specific parts of the pelvic girdle and circling their characteristics on the chart below; then answer the question that follows and provide your reasoning.

Sex Characteristics of the Pelvis Feature Male Female A. obturator foramen shape Large, ovoid triangular B. acetabulum size Large Small C. pubic arch Less than 90 degrees More than 90 degrees D. sciatic notch shape Narrow, deep Wide E. Ilium shape High, vertical Wide F. pelvic inlet shape Heart-shaped Circular G. sacrum shape Long, narrow Short, wide

1. What is the sex (gender) of the unknown pelvic bone?2. Record observations that support this determination.

ACTIVITY II: SEX DETERMINATION FROM SKULL MORPHOLOGY (Teamwork & Communication) Help Tom McCune determine the sex of the skeleton by identifying the specific parts of the skull and circling their characteristics on the chart below; then answer the question that follows and provide your reasoning.

Sex Characteristics of the Skull Feature Male Female A. supraorbital ridge Prominent slender B. occipital protuberance Prominent slender C. mastoid process Long, broad short D. mandible Square V-shaped

1. Analyze the skull to determine the sex of the unknown skull.2. What is the sex (gender) of the unknown skull?3. Record observations that support this determination.

Activity III: HEIGHT ESTIMATION (Empirical & Quantitative Reasoning) Anthropologists estimate the height of individuals by measuring specific bones. There is a link between measuring the length of certain bones and the height of the individual. This connection (also known as regression) is consistent enough for a person’s height to be inferred. Measure the length of the femur and, using the height estimation data given below (Bass 1987), provide a range of estimated height:

A. Height Estimation Using the Found Femur (femur from bones found by the dog in the case)Male regression formula: (2.32 × length of the femur in cm.) + 65.53 ± 3.94

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Female regression formula: (2.47. × length of the femur in cm.) + 54.10 ± 3.72

Length of femur: cm

Calculation using regression formula:

Range of estimated height in cm:

Covert the height to inches. 1 inch = 2.54 cm

Calculation:

Range of estimated height in inches:

Explain what is meant by deviation.

B. Inferring Your Height from Femur Length

Have your partner measure your femur with a meter stick or measuring tape. Calculate your height in centimeters (cm) using the femur measurement. Measure your height in cm and determine the deviation from the calculated height. The deviation is the difference between the actual height and the calculated height. (Each group member should complete this activity for their femur with the help of a partner.)

1. Length of femur:Calculation:

Height in cm =

Deviation:

2. Propose factors other than gender that might influence the formulas used for calculating height basedon femur length.

3. How might you increase the accuracy of your height determination?

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ACTIVITY IV: ANALYSIS FOR PATHOLOGICAL AND PHYSIOLOGICAL CHANGES (Critical Thinking & Communication) Skeletons may exhibit arthritic changes such as lipping of the vertebrae or compression of the vertebral bodies. Occasionally deformities from healed fractures are seen. Empty alveoli sockets maybe be the result of prior tooth loss or loss due to rough handling. Examine the x-rays in the lab and look for evidence of trauma or pathology. Record your observations and your inferences regarding pathology or trauma.

Specimen Description/Number

Visual Observations Inferred Pathology or Trauma

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Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report

Criteria Self-Evaluation Questions Points Possible

Teamwork Did the self-evaluation indicate that you made significant contributions to the group while examining and discussing the evidence?

1

Communication Was the written report and summary conclusion completed in a thorough manner using the format for an investigative report? Were observations/evidence presented clearly and in an effective manner? Syntax and mechanics: Was the written report and summary conclusion free of spelling and grammatical errors?

3

Empirical and Quantitative Reasoning

Was adequate evidence gathered and recorded for sex, age, race, height and pathology determinations? Was height correctly determined from the femur and recorded with the proper units? Was range correctly defined and determined? Was deviation correctly defined and determined?

3

Critical Thinking Was evidence used to support conclusions regarding sex, race, height, age and pathologies? Were assumptions and/or discrepancies identified?

3

1. You must submit your lab report via Blackboard (even if you submit a paper copy to your professor). Atemplate with main headings will be provided.

2. A lab report should include the following sections:a. Purpose of Investigation (Communication, Critical Thinking): This should describe the purpose

(point) of the exercise/experiment and should include your hypothesis. Think about youraudience and circumstances surrounding this report (maybe you are presenting this case to agroup of forensic anthropologists, or even to a court).

b. Introduction (Communication): This section should include background information about theparticular subject that the lab covers and the experiment being performed. You will needreferences in this section. You references may NOT include the lab manual.

c. Materials (Communication): This section should list ALL materials used for theexercise/experiment in bullet point format. The equipment and supplies used should be listed.Make sure to include ALL of the materials used in the procedure outlined in your lab report.Likewise, make sure you include ONLY the materials used in the procedure outlined in your labreport.

d. Methodology and Evidence Examined (Communication, Critical Thinking): In this section,briefly describe what steps were taken and carried out to investigate the case. Be specific. Thissection needs to be in paragraph form. This section should be written so that a person who hasno knowledge of anatomy, physiology or forensic analysis should be able to recreate theexercise/experiment. The write-up of the methods should be similar to a detailed recipe. A

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person who has never done this lab should be able to read this section and know exactly what equipment and supplies are needed and how to perform the experiment.

e. Investigative Findings & Analysis (Teamwork, Critical Thinking): In this section you shouldpresent the findings/evidence you collected. Tables are a good way to present the findings.Each table should have a number and a descriptive title so that each may be referred to in theconclusion. Additionally, it is recommended that a brief description of the findings for eachpiece of evidence observed is included.

f. Measurements and Calculations (Empirical & Quantitative Reasoning): Any measurementstaken and any calculations made should be included. For example, this lab requires thecalculation for estimating the victim’s height using a regression formula that is appropriate tothe sex of the victim. Students must also infer their height by measuring one of their bones.Include the measurements, all calculations (including for conversions), and clearly state thepossible height range. Definitions, deviations, and any influencing factors should also beincluded.

g. Conclusions (Critical Thinking, Communication, and Empirical & Quantitative Reasoning):Write a detailed summary of ALL findings and comprehensive summative conclusions thatclearly connect the evidence with your conclusions. In this case, be sure to back up ALL of yourconclusions and inferences that you made about your victim with the evidence (data) youcollected. Identify any assumptions that you made during the investigation. Account for anyand all discrepancies in your findings as well.

h. References (Communication): In this section, be sure to reference ALL websites/books/etc.used to help write any of this report. This section is to be in APA format and ALL referencesneed to be cited in the lab report following APA format.

Note: You will submit the Teamwork self-reflection as a separate document.

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Score Sheet and Cover Sheet for Dem Bones Lab Report

Criteria Self-Evaluation Questions Points Possible

Points Received

Teamwork Did the self-evaluation indicate that you made significant contributions to the group while examining and discussing the evidence?

1

Communication Was the written report and summary conclusion completed in a thorough manner using the format for an investigative report? Were observations/evidence presented clearly and in an effective manner? Syntax and mechanics: Was the written report and summary conclusion free of spelling and grammatical errors?

3

Empirical and Quantitative Reasoning

Was adequate evidence gathered and recorded for sex, age, race, height and pathology determinations? Was height correctly determined from the femur and recorded with the proper units? Was range correctly defined and determined? Was deviation correctly defined and determined?

3

Critical Thinking Was evidence used to support conclusions regarding sex, race, height, age and pathologies? Were assumptions and/or discrepancies identified?

3

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**NOTE**: All RED text is to be replaced with your information. There should be NO red text on your final draft. The BLACK text needs to STAY, it is important to the lab report format. Click on the gray text boxes to

start typing your information in each section.

Review the document titled “Instructions and Score Sheet for DEM Bones Lab Report” for further instructions.

Name: (your name goes here in the paper copy & your G# goes here on the electronic copy) Lab: Dem Bones Forensics Report Due date: the date the report is due goes here

Purpose of Investigation

Introduction

Materials

Methodology & Evidence Examined

Investigative Findings & Analysis

Measurements & Calculations

Conclusions

References

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Teamwork Self Reflection Prompt Questions

Directions: Reflect upon your teamwork skills by addressing the five questions below. Please address the questions completely. You are expected to write one paragraph for each question. Submit to Blackboard a typed document: a minimum of one page and a maximum of 2 pages (not including the questions below). Check your reflection for syntax and mechanics.

1. On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 being the best), how well did you contribute to team meetings (online or face- to-face)? Using specific examples and details, explain your rating. What role did you play in team meetingsor discussions (online or face-to-face)? What ideas or work did you contribute? Consider your verbal (vocalor written tone, etc.) and nonverbal communication (body language, facial expressions, etc.).

2. On a scale of 1 to 10, how well did you encourage others to participate? Using specific examples and details,explain your rating. In what ways did you encourage or support participation by all team members?

3. On a scale of 1 to 10, how did you contribute to the work accomplished by the team? Using specificexamples and details, explain your rating. Explain the assignments and the completion of the team’sresponsibilities. What was your contribution to completing the project on time, and did you contributebeyond your assigned responsibilities? What were your individual contributions outside of meetings?

4. On a scale of 1 to 10, how well did you work with and relate to other team members? Using specificexamples and details, how did you help or motivate team members in a positive and respectful way. Whatconstructive feedback did you provide to team members toward the completion of the project?

5. On a scale of 1 to 10, how well did you contribute to resolving conflicts within the team? Using specificexamples and details, describe how your team resolved conflicts. How did the team discuss the issue orcome to a conclusion? What was your role in that process? Remember, a conflict is not necessarily anargument or fight; it may be a difference of opinion or a discussion with varying viewpoints that reaches aspecific conclusion.