Drogas lícitas e ilícitas: uma sequência didática para o ensino de Química Orgânica

Abstract

This study investigated the pedagogical potential of licit and illicit drugs as a contextualizing theme for teaching Organic Chemistry at High School level. The research is based on the need to overcome traditional and fragmented approaches, which often result in mechanical memorization of formulas and student disinterest. The main objective was to analyze how the study of structural, legal, and physiological properties of psychoactive substances can facilitate the understanding of fundamental chemical concepts, such as carbon hybridization, functional groups, molecular geometry, and polarity. Methodologically, this research is classified as a qualitative study of bibliographic and documentary nature, connecting specialized literature on science education with current Brazilian legislation, specifically Law No. 11.343/2006 and ANVISA resolutions. The study involves a detailed chemical analysis of model substances, including ethanol, nicotine, THC, cocaine, and MDMA, correlating their microscopic structures with their macroscopic effects and routes of administration. The results suggest that the interdisciplinary approach to the theme promotes greater student engagement, allowing natural curiosity about drugs to be converted into systematized scientific knowledge. Finally, it is observed that the use of this didactic resource effectively contributes to scientific literacy and citizenship education, empowering young people to critically interpret public health issues and make conscious decisions based on solid chemical foundations.