A problemática dos microplásticos no ensino de polímeros: uma análise em livros didáticos de Química do ensino médio e suas implicações para a formação crítica dos estudantes

Abstract

This work addresses the issue of microplastics in the context of polymer education in high school chemistry, considering their environmental impacts and implications for the development of students’ critical thinking. The topic is particularly relevant due to the intensive use of polymeric materials in contemporary society and the improper disposal of these materials, which contributes to environmental pollution and poses risks to hu- man health. The main objective of this study was to investigate how microplastics are addressed in chemistry education, aiming to foster critical thinking and socio-environ- mental awareness among high school students. A qualitative methodology was adop- ted, structured in two stages: a bibliographic review and a document analysis of four chemistry textbooks used in the public school system of Cocal, Piauí, covering editions published between 2016 and 2024. The results revealed that the 2016 textbooks com- pletely omit the topic, focusing solely on traditional polymer concepts. In contrast, the 2024 editions already incorporate discussions on microplastics, aligning with the gui- delines of the National Common Curriculum Base, although they still lack theoretical depth and practical examples. As an educational product, a scientific dissemination brochure was developed for the school community. The final considerations highlight that including microplastics in the chemistry curriculum is essential for the formation of environmentally conscious citizens. Moreover, addressing this topic in chemistry tea- ching serves as a fundamental strategy to contextualize content, promote scientific literacy, stimulate critical thinking, and encourage sustainable practices, fostering changes in consumption and disposal habits in response to contemporary environmen- tal challenges