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FAQ: Course Structure & Format

How is the curriculum structured each week?

Each mystery follows a consistent six-week format. Students start with a storyline segment, analyze physical or testimonial evidence, conduct a hands-on forensic lab, and complete a writing assignment. Each week builds on the last as they work to solve the case and write their own version of the mystery.

Both solo and group versions follow the same structure, with adaptations for independent work or classroom discussion.

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

You can start anytime. Each mystery runs six 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 six 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 co-ops or families teaching multiple students. It includes team collaboration prompts, group discussion points, and pacing guidance for working in a classroom or 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?

Besides the core mysteries, the program includes several features to enrich the learning experience and add depth for curious students:

  • Forensic Focus Questions—short weekly research prompts that connect real-world science to each case.
  • Forensic Science Showcase—a creative presentation or project completed once during the series (with the option to repeat after each mystery for additional credit hours).
  • My Research projects—optional case-specific research topics that go beyond the core assignments, building skills in science, English, and applied critical thinking.
  • My Forensic Lab projects—optional hands-on lab challenges for deeper science application.
  • Visuals & Immersion—crime boards, evidence folders, and movie posters to help bring each mystery to life.
  • Take a Deep Dive Videos—optional video resources that explore topics and fields of forensic science. Some videos touch on mature content (e.g., crime scene work or decomposition) and are clearly marked in the Teacher’s Edition as “At Teacher’s Discretion,” so you can preview and decide what’s right for your student.