The Little Roots Secret Science Lab

Something has gone missing from the Little Roots Secret Science Lab… and your Junior Scientist has been called in to solve the case. 🔎🌿

The special botanical specimen known as Moonroot has disappeared from its display shelf. Four people were nearby—but being a suspect doesn’t mean someone did anything wrong.

Young investigators will have to observe carefully, test clues, compare evidence, eliminate possibilities, and follow the science to figure out what really happened.

This 18-page hands-on mystery adventure introduces children to beginner forensic-science concepts in a playful, age-appropriate way.

Inside, your learner will:

🔎 Investigate a detailed science-lab scene

👣 Compare footprints by size, tread, and unique markings

🖐 Learn about loop, whorl, and arch fingerprint patterns

🧪 Complete a safe paper chromatography experiment

🖋 Compare fictional ink-evidence samples

📋 Build an evidence board

❌ Eliminate possibilities using multiple clues

🔐 Decode a secret message

🌿 Discover the final clue

📝 Complete an official Junior Scientist case report

🏅 Earn a Case Solved certificate

The mystery is designed to encourage children to use evidence instead of guesses and understand that one clue alone usually isn't enough to reach a strong conclusion.

Ages: 5–10

Pages: 18

Format: Digital PDF printable

Includes: Adult answer key

Moonroot is a fictional botanical specimen created specifically for this investigation.

Please note: This is a digital product. No physical item will be mailed.