Reutilização de resíduos sólidos na construção de figuras geométricas: uma abordagem interdisciplinar no ensino fundamental

Abstract

The environmental problems caused by the inefficiency in solid waste management and the difficulties faced by teachers in engaging students in learning geometry, due to the scarcity of concrete teaching materials, represent challenges that need to be overcome within the educational context. These challenges highlight the urgent need to transform the approach to environmental and Mathematics topics in schools, especially in light of the unsatisfactory results observed in international assessments, which show the low performance of Brazilian students in Science and Mathematics. In this context, and recognizing the limitations of traditional methodologies, this study investigated the feasibility of developing manipulable educational resources using reusable and accessible materials, applicable in interdisciplinary hands-on lessons. The overall aim of this study was to create teaching materials, games, and experiments made exclusively from recyclable materials, organized into interdisciplinary activities to enrich Geometry lessons and promote environmental awareness and sustainable practices. The study also aimed to contribute to the development of skills in the areas of Mathematics and Science, in line with the guidelines of the reference curriculum frameworks. The methodology included a literature review and an experimental phase, during which five suggestions for interdisciplinary activities were developed, which can be applied by teachers in different grade levels, as long as they are adapted to the specific needs of each class. As a result, the study generated theoretical content on environmental issues and geometry, as well as activities that provide an enriching experience. By using these activities, students become protagonists of their learning, developing essential skills such as teamwork, responsibility, and respect for the environment, while also recognizing their role in environmental degradation and seeing themselves as agents capable of contributing to changing this reality