Students in Mr. Diehl's Exploring the Clinical Lab class at Papillion La Vista South High School recently concluded an innovative forensic science unit with a simulated trial. This extensive lab exercise challenged students to apply a wide range of topics they had studied, including deductive reasoning, crime narrativization, decomposition biology, and forensic entomology.

The trial simulation required students to arrange informed scientific arguments into persuasive narratives, taking on roles as either the defense or prosecution. To ensure a comprehensive learning experience, the class participates in two trials during the unit. This structure allows half the class to serve as the prosecution and defense while the other half acts as the jury for each trial.

Mr. Diehl, the course instructor, developed and refined this complex assignment based on valuable feedback from both students and professionals in the field. Consultations with an FBI agent, a forensic entomologist, a medical examiner, and several lawyers contributed to the authenticity and educational value of the exercise.

The collaborative nature of the project, combined with its real-world applications, resulted in high levels of student engagement. This hands-on approach to learning forensic science not only reinforces classroom concepts but also provides students with practical experience in critical thinking, argumentation, and the application of scientific principles to legal scenarios.

This innovative teaching method exemplifies Papillion La Vista South High School's commitment to providing students with engaging, relevant, and challenging educational experiences that prepare them for future academic and professional pursuits.