Classification of Evidence Worksheet Answers

Answer Key Evidence can be classified as either direct or circumstantial. Direct evidence is evidence that directly establishes a fact in an investigation. Circumstantial evidence is less absolute and only implies a fact. Part A. For each piece of evidence below, classify as Circumstantial or Direct. Circumstantial evidence can be further classified as either biological or physical. Biological evidence is derived from a person, plant or mineral. Such evidence would include DNA, natural fibers and hair. All other evidence is considered physical and includes items such as prints, glass fragments, and bullets. For each piece of circumstantial evidence below, further classify as either biological or physical. Evidence Ransom note Classification Police confession from suspect can be direct (if signed) or circumstantial (no signature); physical direct Paint transferred to vehicle circumstantial; physical Gunshot residue circumstantial; physical Glass fragments circumstantial; physical A thief caught stealing from Wal-mart direct Body fluids circumstantial; biological DNA circumstantial; biological Fingerprints circumstantial; physical Bite marks on a victim’s body circumstantial; physical Hairs circumstantial; biological Fibers Eye-witness accounts circumstantial; can be physical or biological direct A hit and run accident caught on film direct A toxicology report that confirms that a victim used drugs Cell phone records direct Tool marks circumstantial; physical Tire prints circumstantial; physical A signed confession from a suspect direct Police surveillance footage direct direct Evidence Answers will vary Explanation Answers will vary © The Trendy Science Teacher 2018 Part B. Observe the photo on the board at the front of the classroom. What evidence would you collect from this crime scene? List the evidence you would collect and explain how you would use it in the investigation.