CSI

YEAR 9 AND 10 FORENSIC SCIENCE

The Year 9 and 10 CSI class at KSC undertook a forensic science investigation focused on the behaviour of structure fires and the forensic indicators of arson.

As part of this investigation, students worked collaboratively in teams to design and construct model structures in accordance with precise construction parameters. These structures were then subjected to controlled burns under strict safety protocols. During ignition and combustion, students systematically observed the fire’s development, flame spread, heat distribution, and the structural response to fire exposure.

Following extinguishment, the burned remains were carefully examined to identify indicators of fire origin and cause, patterns of fire damage, and the extent of structural and content loss. Students then synthesised their observations and analyses into formal forensic reports, detailing hypotheses about ignition sources, burn progression, and supporting evidence—submitted for final assessment.