Laboratórios de óptica para alunos do ensino médio das escolas públicas: montagem e avaliação de aprendizagem

Abstract

This work discusses the importance of practical lessons for the geometrical optics content to be better assimilated and understood by secondary education students from public schools, and with a gradually awakening, the interest in the classes increases. We especially analyzed the use of the laboratory, the involvement of students and the use of kits for experiments on geometric optics. The use of inexpensive materials and easily accessible approach was verified, and also issues such as scattering of light, flat mirrors association, reflection and refraction of light and spherical lenses. We noted that for many students it is difficult to make a connection between theory and practice. In this meantime, one can realized that physics has to make sense to the students and be seen as something practical and present in their daily lives. Thus, the practical classes become a great ally of the teacher, ensuring greater learning about the covered topics. Therefore, the objectives of this study aimed to propose changes in the traditional methodology of the current physics teaching in Minas Gerais, and developing student curiosity and critical thinking to understand and learn more easily the taught content. This work was developed with students of the second series of regular high school from the State School São Sebastião, Cruzília - MG. The laboratory activities have achieved our goals. Therefore, the use of physics laboratories is an excellent resource for the better understanding of optics for students, from a more effective learning.