Shoeprint Identification

Students take on the role of detectives to analyze shoeprints found at a crime scene and compare them to suspect prints. By examining features such as size, tread patterns, and wear marks, they determine which suspect’s shoe matches the evidence.

1. Prepare one culprit shoe impression sheet and three suspect shoe impression sheets. Alternatively, collect three real shoes, coat the soles with dilute paint, and press them onto paper to make prints.
2. Divide students into small groups and provide each group with a “Crime Fighter’s Case Book” or worksheet and a pencil.
3. Give groups the three suspect shoe impression sheets. Instruct them to carefully observe and record distinguishing features such as tread style, size, brand marks, or damage.
4. After discussion, provide the culprit shoe impression sheet.
5. Have groups compare the culprit print to the suspect prints, noting similarities and differences in tread features, wear patterns, or damaged areas.
6. Students conclude which suspect shoe most likely made the culprit print and explain their reasoning in their case book.

Shoe Print Casts | DIY Crime Scene Investigator Activities | Whodunit? - Scitech WA:

Making shoe print casts - Dr. Steve Griffiths:

📄 Shoeprint Identification - Science World: https://www.scienceworld.ca/resource/shoeprint-identification-crime-fighters-station-5/

• Make real prints using actual shoes and washable paint instead of pre-made impression sheets.
• Create 3D impressions in sand or mud and photograph them for students to analyze.
• Add “trace evidence” (soil, sand, or plant material) to the impressions for students to consider.

• If using paint for real shoeprints, ensure it is washable and protect work surfaces with newspaper or disposable covers.
• Keep walkways clear of wet paint or muddy surfaces to prevent slipping.
• Handle scissors, rulers, or any sharp tools for trimming sheets with care.
• Wash hands after handling materials.

• What features make one shoeprint different from another? (Tread patterns, size, brand marks, wear patterns, and damage.)
• How certain can you be that the suspect’s shoe made the print? (Prints can strongly suggest a match, but other evidence is needed to confirm.)
• Can you prove the suspect was wearing the shoes at the time of the crime? (No—ownership of shoes doesn’t prove they were worn during the crime.)
• How might the surface (dirt, sand, tile) affect the clarity of the shoeprint? (Soft surfaces may distort or blur details, while hard surfaces may give clearer impressions.)