Forensic Science: DNA Profiling | Mystery DNA Profile Challenge

Forensic Science: DNA Profiling | Mystery DNA Profile Challenge

Help students move beyond simply learning what DNA is and explore how forensic scientists actually compare DNA profiles with this No Prep Forensic Science investigation for Grades 9–12.

Students investigate short tandem repeats (STRs), DNA profiling, and CODIS before applying their research to a Mystery DNA Profile Challenge. They analyze hypothetical STR data, compare evidence and reference profiles, identify matches and exclusions, and consider why multiple matching locations increase confidence in a DNA comparison.

Students Will:
- Understand how STRs are used to construct forensic DNA profiles
- Interpret and compare hypothetical STR data
- Identify matching and nonmatching reference profiles
- Explain how DNA profiles can support association and exclusion
- Explore how CODIS is used to search for potential DNA matches
- Design their own Mystery DNA Profile Challenge
- Create evidence and reference DNA profiles using STR data
- Consider partial profiles, mixed DNA, relatives, and other complications
- Analyze why a DNA match requires careful interpretation
- Present and defend conclusions using evidence and scientific reasoning

What's Included:
- Teacher Directions
- Student Overview + Mini Research Questions
- 5-Step Group Activity
- Online research resources
- 3 dynamic student investigation pages
- Color student pages
- Printer-friendly black & white student pages
- Teacher STR Locations Reference with 40 STR loci
- Completed Mystery DNA Profile Challenge teacher exemplar
- Research, planning, profile comparison, and deeper-analysis activities

Why Teachers Love This Resource:
- No prep and ready to use—print, assign, and go
- Turns DNA profiling into an engaging hands-on analytical challenge
- Goes beyond vocabulary by having students interpret and create STR profiles
- Includes a teacher reference and completed exemplar to make implementation easier
- Combines research, biology, data analysis, critical thinking, and forensic investigation
- Helps students understand both the power and limitations of DNA profiling
- Flexible for individual, partner, or small-group work
- Includes both color and printer-friendly B&W student pages
- Great for Forensic Science, Biology, Criminal Justice, STEM, enrichment, or sub plans

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Disclaimer
This is an independent educational resource created for classroom instruction. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by any law enforcement agency, forensic laboratory, government organization, or other organization referenced within the resource.
Forensic science may involve sensitive topics including crime, violence, blood, DNA, bodily fluids, injuries, death, and other biological evidence. Teachers should preview materials and determine their appropriateness for their students and school community. All forensic scenarios, DNA profiles, and investigative activities are provided for educational purposes only and are not intended as professional forensic, medical, or legal training.