There’s been a crime on Prospector’s Cove, and a certain type of beach sand found on the victim is your key piece of evidence.

• Grades 6 to 8

Fortunately, your students have studied different types of sand (and other crystals) under a stereoscope or hand-held magnifier and can distinguish between color, shape, texture and luster so, after reviewing the stories of several suspects and matching characteristics of sand grains found on the suspects’ clothing to those of the victim, your students should be able to finger the culprit.

This fun kit, developed by teacher John Gonzales, includes materials for 10 student groups, five different types of sand, plus sugar and salt, 80 microscope slide holders, and instructions.