Criminology (Level 6)

The Criminology course has less emphasis on chemistry.

It has one mandatory unit: Criminology: Nature and Extent of Crime (J46Y 46) and then learners do 2 from:

• Modern Studies: Social Issues in the United Kingdom (J2A6 76)
• Criminology: Forensic Psychology (J46W 46)
• Forensic Science: Practical Techniques (F824 12)
• Criminology: Crime Control Strategies (J46X 46)
• Crime in Society (FN51 12)

The unit Forensic Science: Practical Techniques includes some chemistry content.

Forensic Science: Practical Techniques

Outcome 1 - Explain and use scientific techniques in relation to their application in forensics.

Various techniques to identify substances found at crime scenes such as drugs or paint samples. Spectra could be provided* for techniques not possible in the centre.

Outcome 1 - learners are required to explain and analyse the results of two chemical techniques in relation to their use in forensic science.

These can be the same as the ones listed for outcome 2 below.

OUTCOME 2 - learners should carry out six forensic science techniques (2 from chemistry).

Learners should carry out 2 techniques. Possible examples from the Unit Support Notes are:

Chromatography (paper(eg inks); TLC; GLC;HPLC)

There are various investigations that are applicable here.

TLC of amino acids in soy sauce

TLC of spearmint oil (part of the Terpenes activity)

And paper analysis of food dyes as part of the Food Forensics activity.

Mass spectrometry*

Infrared spectrometry*

UV spectrometry*

Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy*

Colorimetry

There are various colorimetric analyses that can be carried out.

Investigation of Iron/Manganese content in Tea

Investigation of phosphate in water.

Identification techniques (eg Flame tests; chemical tests; melting points)

Chemical synthesis (aspirin)

Chemical analysis (using aspirin; Vitamin C)

A volumetric analysis of vitamin C can be found here: Vitamin C in Vegetables

* It is not expected that schools/colleges must have access to these in order to run the course. Learners can be familiarised with them by means of the examination of spectra etc.

Outcome 3 - Learners should investigate a simulated crime scene.

Nothing really chemistry specific here.