CSI Algebra - Writing and Using Formulae

Here’s a real life CSI application of algebra for your students…

Students have to solve a murder investigation using formulae (writing and substituting). They have to gather evidence at three locations: the crime scene, mortuary and forensic laboratory. Once they have collected their evidence, they examine a suspect list to identify the murderer.

Crime scene – The suspect has left muddy boot prints at the crime scene. Students have to measure the boot print and step length to determine the suspect’s height.

Mortuary – Students have to determine the time of death using body temperature.

Forensic Laboratory – The victim died from chronic arsenic poisoning. Students have to determine for how long the victim was poisoned for.

Answers included.

Here are some other crime scene activities you may be interested in:
Crime Scene Algebra - Using Formulae and Linear Regression
Crime Scene Algebra - Using Formulae & Quadratic Equations