Produzindo cola a partir do leite: uma proposta experimental para o ensino de proteínas nas aulas de química do ensino médio

Abstract

Traditional Chemistry teaching, focused exclusively on the teacher's presentation of content, often discourages students' engagement and active participation. This study proposes an experimental approach as a pedagogical tool to teach concepts about proteins, using the production of glue from milk as a practical activity. The research was conducted with 3rd year high school students at a public school in Itacoatiara-AM, and data collection included questionnaires and activity sheets. An initial questionnaire assessed students' prior knowledge, revealing varying levels of understanding on the topic. After a dialogued expository class, experimental practice was carried out that demonstrated the extraction of casein from milk and its transformation into glue. The experiment integrated theory and practice, allowing students to directly observe and manipulate the concepts taught. The results indicated a significant advance in understanding the content, with emphasis on the improvement in students' responses post-experiment. The experimental practice fostered skills such as observation, critical analysis and group work, in addition to consolidating learning. It is concluded that experimentation enriches Chemistry teaching, connecting theoretical concepts to practical everyday applications, and can be an indispensable resource to motivate and engage students.