106 - LAB 6 - Forensic Skeletal Analysis (2)

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Wichita State University *

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106

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Anthropology

Date

Dec 6, 2023

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docx

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Wichita State University Name: _______________________ ANTH 106 2020 Tuesday/Thursday Instructor: Buchanan-Burke LAB # 6 – Forensic Skeletal Analysis OBJECTIVES:  Learn techniques for skeletal analysis.  Appreciate how forensic and archaeological techniques relate.  Apply these techniques to a mock forensic case in order to reconstruct its identity.  Present a summary of your conclusions. KEY TERMS: An important application of physical anthropology is the evaluation and identification of human skeletal remains. The field of forensic anthropology concerns the evaluation of human remains from very recent contexts. Forensic anthropologists work with law enforcement agencies to identify an individual’s remains, understand the circumstances surrounding death, bring closure to families, and solve crimes. In this lab, we will learn techniques for skeletal analysis using mock forensic investigations. Always keep in mind that, due to human variation, all determinations are based on probabilities. Each technique has inherent difficulties and limitations. To minimize uncertainty, anthropologists combine results from as many techniques as possible (for example, evaluating sex based on the pelvis and skull, or age based on appearance of the pubic symphysis and dental wear). You will be divided into groups. Each group will examine a mock forensics case. With your group, you will prepare a report of your investigation. These are real human remains and must be handled carefully and treated respectfully. SECTION 1: Basic Questions

Your job is to provide a preliminary evaluation of the remains. To begin, it is important to establish a few basic facts. For estimating sex, refer to the reference materials at the end of this packet. 1.1 Are these bones? If so are they human bones? Are there any animal bones present? 1.2 List all the human bones present. Element (what part of the body is present?) Side (left or right, if bone can be sided) Sex estimate (if possible) SECTION 2: Age at death

Individual teeth of the deciduous (baby) and permanent (adult) dentition erupt at different times during an individual’s growth. Likewise, different bones complete their growth at different times. Age estimates from dental eruption are most accurate in young individuals, while epiphyseal (growth plate) fusion provides more information about the end of adolescence and early adulthood (when growth is completing). Using the dental eruption chart provided, estimate the next page, estimate the age of the specimens based on which teeth have or have not erupted. In the diagram, shaded teeth represent the deciduous teeth, while white teeth are permanent. Element (what part of the body) Age estimate

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