HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE

MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS

QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

1
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

PRELIMINARIES
COURSE DESCRIPTION

This module tackled the Introduction to Questioned Document Examination. It

determines also the different kinds of documents and identifies the Instruments used in

Questioned Document Examination. Also, generalize how the document examiner

handled properly and preserve the standard and questioned document. Lastly,

The methods to be used will be formal lecture and discussion, supplemented by

class recitations, case studies, research works, and class demonstrations to optimize

the comprehension of the student on the subject matter.

TOPIC OUTLINE

WEEK 1: Introduction to Questioned Document

WEEK 2: Kinds of Document

WEEK 3: Instruments used in Questioned Document Examination

WEEK 4: Handling of Documents and Questioned Documents

WEEK 5: Forms and Style in Writing

WEEK 6: PRELIMINARY EXAMINATION

2
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

ACTIVITY 1
INTRODUCTION TO QUESTIONED DOCUMENT EXAMINATION

I. INTRODUCTION

This module introduces the rationale of Questioned Document Examination;

personalities contributed to developing the system in examining Questioned
Document, basic terminologies related to Questioned documents examination
and discuss the legal basis of the Document and explain the physiological basis
of Handwriting.

II. LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

The students must be able to:
1. Discuss the Rationale of Questioned Document Examination
2. Explain the basic terminologies related to Questioned Document Examination
3. Enumerate the Legal basis of Document.
4. Illustrate and explain the physiological basis of Handwriting.

III. MATERIALS:
a. Bond paper
b. Pen and pencil

IV. PROCEDURES:

a. Write the English Alphabet in the following kinds of handwriting.

Cursive Writings

_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________

3
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

Script

_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________

BLOCK

_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________

4
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

V. GUIDE QUESTIONS

a. What is questioned document?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

b. What are some of the techniques and tools used in examining the questioned
document?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

c. What are some challenges faced by the questioned document examiner?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________

5
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

ACTIVITY 2
HANDWRITING EXAMINATION AND IDENTIFICATION

I. INTRODUCTION

Handwriting examination and identification, often referred to us forensic

handwriting analysis, is a field of forensic science that focuses on the study and
comparison of handwriting samples to determine the authorship of document or
to detect forgery and fraud forgery. It is a specialized discipline that utilizes
scientific methods and expertise to analyze the individual characteristics and
patterns of a person’s handwriting.

Handwriting examination is commonly employed in legal and forensic contexts.

It can be used to investigate various types of cases, questioned documents, wills,
contracts, anonymous letters, ransom notes, and forged signatures.

II. LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Understanding the principles of handwriting analysis.

2. Recognizing forged or altered signatures.

III. MATERIALS:

a. bond paper
b. pen

IV. PROCEDURES:

a. Write the statement / sentence below in cursive, script, and block handwriting.
b. Indicates your signature three times.

The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.

6
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

Cursive Writings

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

Script

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

BLOCK

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

7
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

V. GUIDE QUESTIONS

a. What are the key characteristics of an individual’s handwriting that makes it unique
and distinguishable to others?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

b. What are some common methods used to alter or disguise handwriting, and how they
can be detected during examination?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

c. How does the examiner determine the authenticity of a questioned document through
handwriting analysis?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

8
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

ACTIVITY 3
INSTRUMENTS USED IN QUESTIONED DOCUMENT EXAMINATION

I. INTRODUCTION

Questioned document examination is a forensic field that involves the analysis

and comparison of documents to determine their authenticity or to detect any
alterations, forgeries, or fraud. Various instruments are used in this discipline to
aid in the examination and analysis of questioned documents.

II. LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Identify and discuss the eight different area of Questioned Document

Examination
2. Illustrate the Instruments used in Questioned Document Examination

III. MATERIALS:
a. Pen, pencil, and coloring materials

IV. PROCEDURES:

a. Draw and label the instruments used in the questioned document examination.
b. Give a brief explanation and how we use these instruments in conducting
examinations of questioned documents.

9
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

10
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

11
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

12
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

13
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

14
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

15
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

V. GUIDE QUESTIONS

a. What are the primary instruments used in the questioned document examination?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

b. What role does a comparison microscope play in analyzing questioned document?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

c. Can you explain the function of a video spectral comparator in questioned document
examination?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

16
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

ACTIVITY 4
HANDLING OF DOCUMENTS AND QUESTIONED DOCUMENTS

I. INTRODUCTION

Questioned documents are documents that are subject to security or examination

in legal or forensic investigations to determine their authenticity, origin, or to
answer specific questions related to the documents content. These documents
may be involved in cases of fraud, forgery, disputed signature, altered records, or
any other situations where the veracity of the document is in question.

Document Preservation ensuring the proper handling and preservation of

questioned documents to maintain their integrity throughout the investigation and
legal process. It is important to note that handling and examining questions
documents require expertise and specialized training in forensic document
examination or relevant fields to ensure accurate analysis and interpretation of
the evidence.

II. LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Demonstrate how to be handled carefully and preservation of Documents.

2. Enumerate the Division of Questioned Document Examination
3. Identify and elaborate the aspects of Questioned Document Examination

III. MATERIALS:

a. bond paper
b. pen
c. scissor

IV. PROCEDURES:

1. Research a photo for the demonstration of proper care and handling of

documents.

17
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

18
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

19
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

V. GUIDE QUESTIONS

a. What legal and ethical considerations should be kept in mind when handling confidential
or sensitive documents in an investigation?

__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________

b. What are the key principles to consider when handling documents as evidence in a legal
investigation?

__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________

c. How is the chain of custody maintained for documents in a criminal investigation?

__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________

20
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

ACTIVITY 5
ILLUSTRATION OF HANDWRITING CHARACTERISTICS

I. INTRODUCTION

Handwriting characteristics refer to the unique and distinctive features

represented in individual handwriting. These characteristics can provide valuable
insights into a person’s personality traits, emotional state, and cognitive abilities.
Analyzing handwriting is a specialized field known as graphology or handwriting
analysis.

When it comes to illustrating handwriting characteristics, it involves visually

representing and highlighting specific elements of a person’s handwriting.

Handwriting can be varied in terms of size, with some individuals writing large,
while others write small. Illustrating the relative size of the letters and words can
provide insights inti a person’s attention to detail and spatial awareness.

II. LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Demonstrate the forms and styles of writing.

2. Describe the differences of forms and styles of writing.

III. MATERIALS:
a. Pencil and Ball pen
b. bond paper

IV. PROCEDURES:

a. illustrates the characteristics of handwriting.

21
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

HANDWRITING ILLUSTRATION
CHARACTERISTICS
GENERAL FORMATION Angular Loop

Arcade

Complete Signature

Embellishment

Eyelet

Initial Stroke

Retouching

Retracing stroke

Semi angular

Terminal stroke

RELATION TO BASELINE
Extreme downward

Concave

Convex

22
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

Higher Elevation

Recurving

Straight downward direction

Wavy direction

Upward direction

Straight direction

LINE QUALITY

Fling initial stroke

Blunt initial stroke

Tremor

Blunt initial stroke

Hesitation

Vanishing terminal stroke

Hiatus

Blunt terminal stroke

23
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

Greater Handwriting
pressure

Pen stopped

Shading tremor

Pen hesitation

RATIO AND
PROPORTION Bigger size

Tall letters

Wider distance

Snort letter

Connections

24
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

V. GUIDE QUESTIONS

a. How would you visually represent and illustrate the variations in letter formation in
a person’s handwriting?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

b. Are there any specific artists or illustrators who have influenced your character design
style?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

c. In your own experience, how do you effectively convey a character’s backstory and
development through their design?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

25
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

ACTIVITY 6

EXAMINATION OF AUTHENTIC HANDWRITING

I. INTRODUCTION

The primary goal of examination is to determine whether the questioned handwriting

matches the known handwriting provided by a particular individual.
The examiner assesses the overall writing style, letter formation, spacing, slant, and
other distinguishing characters.

Signatures are essential elements of many documents, and their authenticity is often
questioned in various legal matters. Handwriting can be influenced by various factors
such as age, health, emotions, and the writing instrument used. The examiner takes
these factors into consideration when making comparisons.

II. LEARNING OBJECTIVES

a. This activity aimed to enable the students to demonstrate their skills in the
examination.

b. It focuses on signature analysis, understanding the distinct characteristics that make

each signature unique.

III. MATERIALS

a. bond paper
b. pen

IV. PROCEDURE

Apply handwriting description guide and established significant writing characteristics

similarities.

26
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

DESCRIPTIVE ASPECT STANDARD SPECIMEN QUESTIONED SPECIMEN

General Formation

Relation to Baseline

Line Quality

Ratio and Proportion

Variation

DESCRIPTION SPECIMEN

27
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

SS1 SS2 SS3 SS4

General
Formation

Relation to

Baseline

Line Quality

Variation

SPECIFIC DESCRIPTION

STANDARD
QUESTIONED

28
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

29
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

10

30
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

V. GUIDE QUESTIONS
a. What is primary objective of the examination of authentic handwriting?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

b. Describe the three key characteristics of handwriting that forensic document

examiners often examine during the comparison process.

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

c. Explain the concept of natural variations in handwriting and how it impacts the
examination process?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

31
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

ACTIVITY 7
INTRODUCTION TO HANDWRITING ANALYSIS

I. INTRODUCTION

Handwriting analysis, also known as graphology or graph analysis, is a forensic

discipline within the field of questions document examination. It involves the
scientific study and interpretation of handwriting characteristics to determine the
authorship of a written document or signature. Handwriting analysis plays a
crucial role in investigations related to fraudulent documents, disputed wills,
forged signatures, and other instances where the authenticity of a written record
is in question.

The examination of handwriting can reveal unique and distinctive patterns that
are specific to everyone, much like a fingerprint. As a result, trained handwriting
analysis can discern various aspects of a personality traits, emotional state, and
physical attributes through their writing style. This information is invaluable in
establishing the authorship of a document or identifying potential suspects in
criminal cases.

II. LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

:
1. Discuss the Definition of Handwriting
2. Analyze the Development of Handwriting
3. Identify the Kinds of Handwriting
4. Elaborate the Basis of Handwriting Examination

III. MATERIALS:
a. Pencil and Ball pen

IV. PROCEDURES:
a. Conduct Research about the Step-by-step Developmental Progression of
Handwriting Skills of a Child.
b. Illustrate and give two examples of developmental progression of handwriting
skills in the space provided below.

32
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

33
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

V. GUIDE QUESTIONS

a. What is questioned document analysis, and how does it relate to handwriting

examination?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

b. What are the key principles and techniques used in handwriting analysis within the
questioned document examination?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

c. How can handwrite analysis distinguish between genuine and forged signatures, and
what are the common indicators they look for?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________

34
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

ACTIVITY 8
PRINCIPLES, VARIATION AND COPYBOOK SYSTEM OF HANDWRITING

I. INTRODUCTION

Handwriting analysis also known as graphology, is the study of a person’s

handwriting to infer their personal trait, emotions, and cognitive pattern, while it is
not considered a scientifically validated method for assessing character, it has
been used in various fields, including forensics, recruitment, and personality
assessment.

The principle of handwriting analysis involves examining various aspects of

handwriting, such as size, slant, pressure, spacing. Letter shapes, and more.
Graphologists interpret these features to make inferences about the writer’s
personality traits and psychological state.

II. LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Discuss and Identify the Principles of Handwriting

2. Explain and Exemplifying Variations in Writing
3. Comparing and discuss the different Copybook System
4. Identifying Illnesses that may affect handwriting of an individual

III. MATERIALS:
a. Ballpen and Paper

IV. PROCEDURES:
1. Execute finger, hand, forearm, and whole arm writing movement.
2. Execute the handwriting movement under the following speed:
a. Slow
b. Moderate
c. Fast
3. Execute each in three sentences.

35
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

A. FINGER MOVEMENT

Slow

Moderate

Fast

B. HAND MOVEMENT

Slow

Moderate

Fast

C. FOREARM MOVEMENT
36
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

Slow

Moderate

Fast

D. WHOLE ARM MOVEMENT

Slow

Moderate

Fast

37
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

V. GUIDE QUESTIONS.

a. How do the principles of handwriting analysis help graphologists in inferring a

person’s personality traits?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

b. In forensic analysis, why is it crucial to consider variations handwriting when

comparing questioned document to known samples?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

c. What are some common factors that can lead to variations in a person’s handwriting?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

38

HOLY ANGEL UNIVERSITY |COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE EDUCATION

AND FORENSIC
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

ACTIVITY 9
TERMINOLOGIES RELATED TO HANDWRITING IDENTIFICATION AND
EXAMINATIONS

I. INTRODUCTION

A questioned document refers to any document, such as a signature, letter, will,

contract, or any written or printed material, whose authenticity of authorship is in
doubt or dispute. Handwriting identification plays a vital role in analyzing and
comparing the handwriting on these documents to establish their legitimacy.

Handwriting identification in questioned documents involves the examination and

analysis of handwriting samples to determine the authenticity or any attempts at
deception in legal and investigative contexts.

II. LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Explain the following terminologies related to Handwriting Identification and
Examinations

III. MATERIALS:
a. Ballpen and Paper

IV. PROCEDURES:
Write a word inside each box that demonstrates the meaning of the term written
above each box.

A. SLOPE OR SLANT
39
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

Slanting to Right

Illustration Observation

Slanting to left

Illustration Observation

B. ALIGNMENT

Ascending

Illustration Observation

Descending
Illustration Observation

Even

40
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

Illustration Observation

41
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

C. RATIO/SIZE OF WRITING

a. Ratio of writing

Irregular Ratio
Illustration Observation

Regular Ratio

Illustration Observation

b. Size of Writing
Large/ Tall
Observation
Illustration

42
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

Medium
Illustration Observation

Regular

Illustration Observation

Lateral Spacing (use a phrase and place to end arrow to indicate the Spacing)

a. The Space between the letters

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
b. Space between the words
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
c. Space between the lines
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

43
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

ACTIVITY 10
HANDWRITING STROKES

I. INTRODUCTION

Handwriting, the timeless practice of shaping written language by hand, has been
an essential means of communication and self – expression throughout human
history. The art of handwriting is more than just a functional skill, it reflects the
unique personality, creativity, and emotions of the writer.

Handwriting stroke refers to the distinct and deliberate movements made by the
hand when forming individual letters, numbers, or symbols on paper. These
strokes are the elemental components that combine to create every aspect of a
person’s handwriting style. Each unique style is an expression of the writer’s
personality and influences how their words are perceived by others.

II. LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Familiarize and identify the different handwriting strokes.

III. MATERIALS:
a. Ballpen and Paper

IV. PROCEDURES:
Illustrate the following in at least two letters/words.
Draw an arrow to indicate the illustrated word.

Arc/Arch

Beard

44
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

Blunt

Body

Bowl

Buckle not

Diacritic

45
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

Terminate Stroke

Eye loop

Foot

Hitch

Hook

Hump

46
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

Knob

Loop

Shank stem

Spur

Whirl

47
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

Initial stroke

Shoulder

EVALUATION QUESTION
Please give us a brief explanation of what you have presented above.
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

48
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

ACTIVITY 11
HANDWRITING IDENTIFICATION AND EXAMINATION

I. INTRODUCTION

Handwriting identification and examination is a specialized field within forensic

science that deals with the analysis and comparison of handwriting samples to
determine the authorship of a document. It is often employed in legal
investigation, criminal cases, and other situations where the authenticity of
handwritten documents is in doubt.

The primary objective of handwriting identification is to ascertain whether a

particular person wrote a questioned document or signature this process involves
the application of scientific principles, except analysis and systematic comparison
techniques.

II. LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

The students must be able to:
1. Identify and explain the Handwriting characteristics and other identifying features.
2. Enumerate the Standards in Handwriting
3. Discuss the procedures in conducting examination of questioned document.

III. MATERIALS:
a. Ballpen and Paper

IV. PROCEDURES:
1. Execute a sample correspondence letter.
2. Find a person and allow copying the correspondence letter using the same
handwriting instrument and ink.
3. Identify and compare the letters in both Standard and questioned.
4. Provide an arrow pointing to the letter with numbers.

49
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

COLLECTED SPECIMEN REQUESTED SPECIMEN

OBSERVATIONS

1 SLANT

50
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

2 ALIGNMENT

3 PROPORTION

4 SIZE

5 SPACE

WEEK 12
MIDTERM DELIVERABLE
This MIDTERM DELIVERABLE is about handwriting identification and examination
worksheets. It also familiarizes the Handwriting strokes. To successfully apply and show
Week 7 through Week 11, reading the lesson is essential. Studying critical phrases at
the end of the chapter will also benefit from reviewing the activity to Test Your
Knowledge. Keep in mind the following:

I. OBJECTIVES: Develop skills in the preparation of document examination reports for

court exhibits.

II. MATERIALS: ball pen

III. PROCEDURES:
1. Used the week 11 questioned and standard handwriting specimen.
2. Compare, investigate, evaluate and conclude whether the handwriting was
written by one and the same person.

51

HOLY ANGEL UNIVERSITY |COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE EDUCATION

AND FORENSIC
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

3. Prepare a worksheet.

52
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

COLLECTED SPECIMEN REQUESTED SPECIMEN

1 SLANT

2 ALIGNMENT

3 PROPORTION

4 SIZE

5 SPACE

53
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

ACTIVITY 13
METHODS USED IN FORGERY

I. INTRODUCTION

Forgery in questioned documents refers to the act of creating or altering

documents with the intent to deceive or mislead others. It is a form of document
fraud where the forged document is presented as genuine or authentic, often to
gain, unfair advantage or to conceal illegal activities. The methods used in
forgery, question documents can vary in complexity and sophistication, and the
poise significant challenges for forensic document examiners and investigators.

II. LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

III.
To be able to distinguish various methods used in forgeries.

IV. MATERIALS:
a. Carbon paper, pencil, pen, and paper

V. PROCEDURES:
Perform how forgeries are made. Ask for a specimen signature from your
classmate.
Give your observations and perform on the spaces provided.

54
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

DESCRIPTIVE ASPECT STANDARD QUESTIONED

SPECIMEN 1,2,3 SPECIMEN
GENERAL FORMATION
RELATION TO BASELINE
LINE QUALITY
RATION AND PROPORTION
VARIATION

COMPARATIVE TABLE

DESCRIPTION SPECIMEN
SS1 SS2 SS3 SS4

SPECIFIC DESCRIPTION

55
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

NO. STANDARDS SAMPLES

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

56
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

COMPARISON CHART

QS1 SS1

QS1 SS2

57
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

ACTIVITY 14

EXAMINATION OF QUESTIONED SIGNATURE

I. INTRODUCTION

A questioned signature refers to any signature whose authenticity is disputed or

uncertain. It could be a signature on a will, a contract, a check, a passport, or any
other document requiring verification. The examination aims to establish whether
the questioned signature was produced by the alleged signer or if it was executed
by someone else attempting to imitate the original signer’s handwriting.

The results of signature examinations can have a significant impact on legal

proceedings. In case of fraud, forgery, or disputed contracts, the examination’s
outcome can influence judgment, determine the legitimacy of documents, and
potentiality lead to criminal changes.

II. LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

Develop the skills in the examination of questioned signature and preparation of

report for court presentation.

III. MATERIALS:
a. paper, pen and, pencil

IV. PROCEDURES:

1. Each student is required to submit at least one genuine signature and one
questioned signature.
2. The student issues a fictitious signed check in the name of each student
(signature may either be traced with carbon, stylus, or transmitted light; simulated
or spurious)
3. Follow the basic procedures and requirements in the signature examination.
4. Using proper instruments and apparatus, compare, examine, and evaluate the
questioned signature with the standard specimen and provide your conclusion.
5. Prepare a worksheet.

58
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

WORKSHEET
CASE: SIGNATURE EXAMINATION (Describe here details of observations of the
examined questioned signature and make an examination report on the following page)

ALIGNMENT
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
________________________
SLANT/SLOPE
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
________________________
STROKE FORMATION
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
________________________
SIZE AND RATIO
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
________________________
PEN PRESSURE
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
________________________
TREMORS/HESITATIONS
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
________________________
QUALITY OF MOVEMENT
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

59

HOLY ANGEL UNIVERSITY |COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE EDUCATION

AND FORENSIC
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
________________________
PEN LIFTS
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
________________________

OTHER OBSERVATIONS (diacritics, pen jumps, etc.)

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________

60
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

EXAMINATION RESULT OF QUESTIONED SIGNATURE

SUBJECT:
__________________________________________________________________
REQUESTING PARTY:
________________________________________________________
DATE RECEIVED:
____________________________________________________________
PURPOSE OF EXAMINATION:
__________________________________________________
SPECIMEN SUBMITTED:
QUESTIONED HANDWRITING/S
1.
2.

STANDARD HANDWRITINGS
1.
2.
3.

OBSERVATIONS/FINDINGS:
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
________

_________________________________
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT EXAMINER

61
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

ACTIVITY 15
EXAMINATION OF TYPE WRITTEN DOCUMENT

I. INTRODUCTION

The examination of typewritten documents is a crucial aspect of forensic

document analysis, which plays a significant role in legal and investigative
processes. A type of written document is any text that has been produced using a
typewriter or computer printer, where individual characters are created by striking
keys that imprint ink into paper.

These documents are often encountered in various scenarios, such as contracts,

letters, reports, and other official records. The examination of typewritten
documents involves meticulous study and analysis of several key elements to
determine their authenticity and origin.

II. LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Identify the security features of the Paper money.
2. Define and understand the term Counterfeiting and Fraud
3. Determine the procedures in examination of genuine and counterfeit pa per
note/bill.

III. MATERIALS:
a. Bond paper, pen and, pencil

IV. PROCEDURES:
1. Research the Elite and Pica model of typewriter. Illustrate/Draw the difference in
terms of fonts and font size.
2. After doing the illustration, observe the differences between these two models.

62
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

63
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

ACTIVITY 16
EXAMINATION OF QUESTIONED SIGNATURE

I. INTRODUCTION

The examination of questioned signatures is a specialized branch of forensic

document examinations that holds paramount importance in verifying the
authenticity of signatures when their legitimacy is in doubt. Signatures are unique
personal identifiers, and their validation is crucial in various legal, financial, and
investigative contexts.

Forensic experts in this field utilize a combination of scientific methodologies and

handwriting analysis to scrutinize and compare questioned signatures against
known exemplars to determine their veracity.

II. LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

III.
1. Identify the security features of the paper money.
2. Define and understand the term Counterfeiting and Fraud
3. Determine the procedures in examination of genuine and counterfeit pa per
note/bill.

IV. MATERIALS:
a. paper, pen and, pencil

V. PROCEDURES:
1. In the photograph, the money bill denomination is in the box provided, and
draw an arrow and label the significant features of a central banknote.
2. Briefly describe the properties of genuine money.
3. Describe briefly how counterfeit money can be detected.

64
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

A. Security Features of a central bank note.

B. Properties of Genuine money

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

65
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

___________________________________________________________________________

C. How to detect counterfeit money

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________

66
 HOLY ANGEL COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
MANUAL IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION & FORENSICS
QUESTIONED DOCUMENT
EXAMINATION

ACTIVITY 17
ALTERATION AND SCIENTIFIC METHOD IN QUESTIONED DOCUMENT

I. INTRODUCTION

II. LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

The students must be able to:
1. Discuss the examination of a questioned document concerning the alteration
2. Identify the Scientific method in Questioned document

III. MATERIALS:
a. Sample signature, paper, pen and, pencil

IV. PROCEDURES:

67