Module Ten
Module Ten: Text Questions
Review Questions
1. What is a questioned document? Describe at least one example of something that might be a questioned document.
A questioned document is a document in which the script or type used in its composition causes suspicion.
2. What is an exemplar? What are the best types of exemplars?
Exemplars are authorized examples of how a text should look as a reference. The best types of exemplars are the ones of similar content and/or in the same format.
3. What are natural variations? Describe how these may happen.
Natural variations are subtle changes in handwriting that occur normally. This usually happen with time.
4. How are stamped signatures different from written signatures?
Stamped signatures are literal stamps that leave a print of a signature instead of a hand signing.
5. What are some of the typescript machines that document examiners may have to investigate? Choose one of these machines and describe what document examiners may look for when comparing the machine to a questioned document.
Some of the typescript machines that document examiners have to investigate are typewriters, photocopiers, and fax machines. With photocopiers, for example, investigators may closely look for discrepancies between copies, as there are little flaws common in every copy.
Critical Thinking Questions
1. Why are questioned documents important in forensic science? What is one example of a situation where a questioned document might be an important part of a criminal case?
Questioned documents are important in forensic science because the verification of a document could sway a course one way or another. For example, a forged suicide note could suggest foul play.
2. What are some of the ways that a document examiner might try to match a questioned document to a specific typewriter? What aspects might they look at?
A document examiner might try to match a questioned document to a specific typewriter by noting possible variations over time that
Review Questions
1. What is a questioned document? Describe at least one example of something that might be a questioned document.
A questioned document is a document in which the script or type used in its composition causes suspicion.
2. What is an exemplar? What are the best types of exemplars?
Exemplars are authorized examples of how a text should look as a reference. The best types of exemplars are the ones of similar content and/or in the same format.
3. What are natural variations? Describe how these may happen.
Natural variations are subtle changes in handwriting that occur normally. This usually happen with time.
4. How are stamped signatures different from written signatures?
Stamped signatures are literal stamps that leave a print of a signature instead of a hand signing.
5. What are some of the typescript machines that document examiners may have to investigate? Choose one of these machines and describe what document examiners may look for when comparing the machine to a questioned document.
Some of the typescript machines that document examiners have to investigate are typewriters, photocopiers, and fax machines. With photocopiers, for example, investigators may closely look for discrepancies between copies, as there are little flaws common in every copy.
Critical Thinking Questions
1. Why are questioned documents important in forensic science? What is one example of a situation where a questioned document might be an important part of a criminal case?
Questioned documents are important in forensic science because the verification of a document could sway a course one way or another. For example, a forged suicide note could suggest foul play.
2. What are some of the ways that a document examiner might try to match a questioned document to a specific typewriter? What aspects might they look at?
A document examiner might try to match a questioned document to a specific typewriter by noting possible variations over time that