Activity Detail
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Forensics Case 1
Tracks of a Killer: Using footprints to estimate height
 


Activity Overview

In this activity, students gather data to test for correlations between height, shoe size, and stride length. They use linear regression to model height versus stride length and height versus shoe size data. Analyzing the tracks left on the crime scene, they determine which suspect has committed the crime.

Before the Activity

  • See the attached PDF file for detailed instructions for this activity
  • Print pages 2 - 8 from the attached PDF file for your class
  • Print sample data and student work pages

    		•

    		During the Activity

    		Distribute the pages to your class.

    Follow the Activity procedures:
    Collecting Data:
  • Measure the height of each student without their shoes
  • Measure shoe size from toe to heel for each student
  • Measure the average stride length of 10 strides of each student
  • Compile data of height, shoe size, and stride length in a data sheet


    • Analyzing Data:
  • Enter data in the calculator as three lists
  • Make a scatter plot of variables height and stride length
  • Use the linear regression function to find the equation of the best fitting line for this data
  • Stride length = (a)height + b
  • Use linear regression to determine the values of a, b, r, r^2
  • Determine which relationship (height versus stride length and height versus shoe size) is linear
  • Extrapolate data from the crime scene and determine the killer from the evidence left behind

    		After the Activity

    		Students analyze the results and answer the case analysis questions.

    Review student results:
  • As a class, discuss questions that appeared to be more challenging
  • Re-teach concepts as necessary

    		Other Downloads




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    Subject Area:
    Science : Forensics : Data Analysis
    Math : Statistics : Data Analysis

    Author:
    Texas Instruments

    Level:
    9-12

    Activity Time:
    60 minutes

    Device:
    TI-83 Plus Family, TI-84 Plus Family

    Apps:
     

    Software:
     

    Accessories:
     

    Other:
    This is Activity 1 from the EXPLORATIONS Book:
    Forensics: Connecting Science Investigations with TI Data Collection Activities.

    The following materials are required for this activity:

  • Metric tape measure or meter stick
  • Chalk or tape


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