Resources required

• Photocopies of the four pattern types: whorls, composite, arches, loops.
  
• OHT of the four pattern types.
  
• Graph paper.
  
• Rulers.
  
• Sellotape and carbon dust.

Learning activity

• Using the OHT, discuss fingerprints with the class.
  
• Give students the photocopy and asked them to work out what their pattern type is. Ask them to try and identify other types. Collect the data and ask students to create a chart of these data in their books, then make graphs of these data.
  
• Ask students to measure their middle finger length and collect the data. Draw up a graph of the two sets of data. Is there any correlation between the two sets (a distinct line of points across the graph)? Discuss this with the class.
  
• Each child should make a fingerprint on a glass, dust it with carbon dust and press some tape over it. Then they should stick the tape into their books.

Learning outcomes

• Name the different pattern types in fingerprints.
  
• Explain how this variation comes about.
  
• Be able to decide whether there is any correlation between the two sets of data.

Extension work

Forensic science, including the use of fingerprints, DNA testing and other clues.

Special needs

More practical work taking fingerprints from other students. Can they identify an unamed child from their fingerprint patterns?