JJ Tuper

Anatomical and Physiological Complexities of Forensic Anthropology

Submitted to Dr. Jennifer Fain-Thornton for Human Anatomy and Physiology 1 (BIOL-210)

Summary:

My project is about the skills needed to pursue forensic anthropology. While these skills are easy to learn, they are difficult to master. An individual may know every bone in the human body, but reading the story these bones are trying to tell is a completely different matter.

General Education Connections

• Communicate ideas in written, oral and other modes as appropriate to a situation and audience
• Communicate ideas in written, oral and other modes as appropriate to a situation and audience
• Apply quantitative and scientific reasoning skills relevant to a field of study
• Employ various thinking strategies to develop well-reasoned judgments
• Evaluate sources of information for accuracy, relevance and reliability
• Use technology tools to manage, integrate and evaluate digital information
• Explore issues through creative, interdisciplinary and innovative approaches

Before I took a complex science-based class, it was easy to write a paper that the average individual is able to read and understand. After taking said class, it is easy to write a paper that individuals with a science background are able to read and understand. The challenge is to write a science-based paper that the average individual is able to read, roughly follow along with, and understand enough to want to keep reading. This assignment helped me build upon those skills. I enjoy reading my papers to others, and tend to get overexcited when I enjoy the topic. It is always refreshing when you see enjoyment on others’ faces instead of boredom or blank stares.

Challenges

One challenge I often encounter is a lack of confidence in my writing. I always feel like I am missing important information that could make the paper better. I am still unable to overcome this and hope to one day feel like there is nothing more that I could do to make my paper stand out and shine bright. I love writing and think that I would like to try creating and writing stories to improve both my confidence and ability.

Application

While it may be slightly morbid, this assignment reminded me of my life. I have sometimes felt like I am slowly wasting away while not living up to my potential. I feel like my “bones” have not told a great story. By the time my story comes to a close, I hope that my “bones” tell a wonderful story and bring closure to all those whom I love and who love me.