Launch the simulator at: http://www.mhhe.com/biosci/genbio/biolink/j_explorations/ch14expl.htm

In this simulator, you will evaluate DNA evidence from actual crimes to determine the guilt or innocence of the suspect. Read the instructions under "How to Use this Exploration." For your report, you will be the DNA expert called to the witness stand to explain the results you got from testing the evidence. Your report will consist of the following:

1. Background Information: you are the expert but the jury is not. First you must explain how DNA fingerprinting works, what RFLPs are, and other background information to give the jury context to understand your results. Be sure to cite information you obtain (from the book and outside sources) in a references section at the end of your report.

2. Results: There are 8 court cases in the simulation. Test each sample and determine whether to include or exclude the suspect on trial. Provide this information in your report, along with a justification for your choice to include or exclude. NOTE: case #3 has two subjects, so be sure to indicate the results of each.

3. Rebuttal: Now you are facing cross-examination (by either the prosecutor or defense, depending on which side you have testified on). Can you say with 100% certainty that the suspect did or did not commit the crime? What other circumstances could have caused the results that you achieved? Brainstorm to what a lawyer might say on cross-examination of your results.