Year 9 Forensics Excursion

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On Monday 14 October, the two Year 9 Forensic Science classes embarked on a journey to the Gene Technology Access Centre (GTAC) in Parkville along with our teachers, Ms Pendlebury and Ms Mitrotasios.

At GTAC, we were challenged to solve an environmental crime involving the death of native birds of prey. With the help of the staff and scientists at the research centre, we conducted our own investigation in small groups, examined evidence, and compared them to known standards.

By analysing an exhibition feather and skull of the dead bird found at the crime scene, we were able to find out that the bird involved in the crime was the protected species the Wedged Tailed Eagle.

To solve the crime of who endangered the birds, we analysed the pellets of an eagle (which is made up of regurgitated hairs and other nondigestible material). We discovered through this, that the eagle had eaten a rabbit closely before death, and with this information we were able to eliminate one of our suspects for the case.

We participated in many activities that involved us working together to analyse DNA and find a match among the suspects. We also performed toxicology tests to determine the poison used in the crime.

By the end of the day, we were able to find the culprit by analysing our evidence, interviewing suspects and making logical deductions.

We have gained an understanding of how to use various equipment, and their importance in solving a case. The overall excursion was informative and fun for us as we learnt valuable science skills whilst having fun in the process.

Written by Sukhreet Kaur Sekhon, Emma Canteri, Catalina Grosso, Sofie Gan, Jayda Cardamone, Navraj Singh, Helma Dinkha, Tanu Bhullar, Hannah Sampang and Zoe Kadoglou – Year 9.