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FAQ: Course Structure & Format

How is the curriculum structured each week?

Each mystery is designed as a six-week core program, but it’s also flexible. Families and groups can easily extend it to eight or nine weeks, depending on their schedule, how light or in-depth they’d like to go, and whether they include the Optional Part 2 bonus material.

Each week includes a storyline segment, evidence analysis, a hands-on forensic lab, and a creative writing assignment that blends science and storytelling. As the case unfolds, students develop their own theories, uncover new clues, and piece together evidence to solve the mystery in their own way.

Both Solo and Group Editions follow the same structure, with built-in adaptations for independent learners or classroom collaboration.

An Optional Part 2 is included with every mystery for families or teachers who want to go deeper. It offers extended activities, bonus labs, and advanced writing or research projects, making it perfect for earning additional credit hours.

Can I do the program year-round or only during the school year?

You can start anytime. Each mystery runs six to nine weeks, so you can work through them back-to-back during the school year or spread them out over a full calendar year. Many families complete all four mysteries in a single academic year, but you can set your own pace.

Can I use Cactus Curricula alongside another science or English program?

Yes. Some families use Cactus Curricula as their main science and English for the year, while others use it as a supplement alongside another curriculum. Because it provides full credits in Forensic Science with Lab, English/Creative Writing, and Applied Critical Thinking, it functions well as a core program, while also integrating easily with other courses.

What’s the difference between the Solo Student Edition and the Group Edition?

The Solo Student Edition is designed for students working independently. It retains the same mysteries, labs, and writing assignments, but streamlines the collaboration elements to provide an individualized experience.

The Group Edition is designed for classrooms, co-ops or families teaching multiple students. It includes team collaboration prompts, group discussion points, and pacing guidance for working in a multi-student setting.

Can a student complete this program independently?

Yes! Cactus Curricula is designed to work equally well for solo students. A student can complete the entire program independently with minimal parent involvement.

Your role can be as hands-on or hands-off as you prefer, whether that means checking in weekly, reviewing labs and writing, or simply being available for questions.

We understand that many parents work full-time or prefer a lighter teaching role. The program is flexible, allowing you to stay involved at a level that works best for your family while still meeting all the requirements to fulfill high school credit.

What is included in the Teacher’s Edition?

The Teacher’s Edition contains:

  • Story scripts for each week
  • Lab instructions with clear, step-by-step guidance
  • Answer keys for labs, discussion questions, and Forensic Focus activities
  • Teaching tips for reluctant or advanced learners
  • Pacing guidance for both group and solo use

Everything is explained in plain language, so no prior science background is required.

How much time does it take each week?

Plan for about 2–3 hours per week for the science, story, and casework, plus an additional hour for writing. Some students may choose to write longer, especially as they become more invested in their mystery.

Each mystery runs for six weeks and follows a consistent structure:

  • Storyline reading and discussion
  • Evidence review and analysis
  • Forensic science labs
  • Creative writing assignments

Note: You may want to set aside extra time during Week 1, especially if it’s your student’s first case. That week includes setting up the case, introducing the story, and reviewing the evidence at the crime scene. After that, the weekly rhythm becomes predictable and manageable.

What extra features are included?

Each mystery includes several built-in features that enrich the core six-week program and bring the investigation to life.

Included in Every Mystery (Core Program):

  • Forensic Focus Questions—short weekly research prompts that connect real-world science to each case.
  • Visuals & Immersion Tools—crime boards, evidence folders, and movie posters that help students visualize each investigation.
  • Take a Deep Dive Videos—curated video resources that explore real forensic science topics.

Optional Part 2 (Extended Learning):
For families or teachers who want to go deeper, the Optional Part 2 offers additional opportunities to extend learning, earn extra credit hours, or challenge advanced students:

  • Forensic Science Showcase—a creative presentation or project.
  • My Research Projects—case-specific research topics that go beyond the core assignments, building skills in science, English, and applied critical thinking.
  • My Forensic Lab—lab challenges for deeper scientific exploration.