ENTRE CONCEITOS E PRÁTICAS: Uma Revisão de Literatura Sobre Desafios no Ensino de Genética e o Potencial da Extração de DNA Vegetal

Abstract

Teaching genetics at the high school level presents challenges related to conceptual complexity, the abstract nature of terminology, and the difficulty of visualizing microscopic phenomena, all of which contribute to a lack of understanding and student disinterest. In this context, inquiry based experimentation emerges as a pedagogical strategy capable of bridging theory and prac tice, promoting critical thinking, and fostering student engagement. Furthermore, plant DNA extraction stands out as an accessible, low-cost experimental activity that allows for the obser vation of chemical interactions involving household reagents and physical phenomena, as the genetic material becomes visible in the form of small, cotton-like strands. This integrative re view analyzed studies published between 2011 and 2025, addressing conceptual difficulties, the contribution of experimentation, and the pedagogical potential of DNA extraction. The re sults indicate that accessible experimental activities help overcome conceptual barriers, strengthening active learning and enhancing the relevance of genetics education in schools.