The Killing of Trayvon Martin: Forensic Evidence and Public Controversy – Forensic Science Reading Comprehension Worksheet

Help your students explore the complex intersection of forensic science, self-defense laws, and social justice with this comprehensive worksheet on the Trayvon Martin case. This resource provides students with an in-depth look at the forensic evidence involved, from ballistic analysis to toxicology reports, and examines the social and legal implications of the high-profile trial. Perfect for engaging discussions on forensic science, the worksheet also invites critical reflection on how evidence is interpreted within broader legal and societal frameworks.

What’s Inside:

• Reading Passage: A detailed breakdown of the forensic evidence in the Trayvon Martin case, including ballistic analysis, autopsy findings, and the “stand-your-ground” law.
• Primary Source Excerpt: A medical report documenting George Zimmerman’s injuries the night of the incident.
• Questions & Answer Key: Thought-provoking multiple-choice, matching, fill-in-the-blank, and short-answer questions designed to encourage students to analyze and discuss the evidence from multiple angles.

Learning Objectives:

• Evaluate how forensic evidence supports or challenges claims of self-defense in criminal cases.
• Analyze how autopsy and ballistic findings provide insights into events leading up to a shooting.
• Discuss the social and legal implications of forensic findings in cases that spark public debate.

Standards:

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.9-10.2: Determine central ideas of a text and analyze its development.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.11-12.4: Determine the meaning of symbols, key terms, and other domain-specific words.

Suggested Courses:

• Forensic Science
• Criminal Justice
• Sociology

This worksheet is a valuable tool for deeper learning, providing a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to understanding forensic science in the context of controversial cases. Ideal for full lessons, homework, or sub plans, it allows students to delve into the real-world application of forensic evidence and its impact on society.

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