Microplastic characterization on sandy beaches: basis for the development of a didactic sequence

Abstract

Beaches are impacted by the improper disposal of plastic waste, which fragments into microplastics and ultimately enters the food chain, reaching humans. Environmental education, combined with scientific literacy, is essential for raising awareness of these impacts. This study proposes and discusses an inquiry-based didactic sequence (DS) designed to address this topic in the 7th grade of elementary education, aligned with the curriculum of the state of Espírito Santo and the Brazilian National Common Core Curriculum (BNCC). The DS was structured into the stages of introduction, investigation, analysis of results, conclusion, and proposal of actions, corresponding to the phases of a scientific investigation. Its development was guided by indicators of scientific literacy. In total, eleven lesson plans were designed, each consisting of two 50-minute classes. Specific teaching resources were developed, including three slide presentations for theoretical lessons, three protocols for experimental laboratory activities, a fieldwork guide, a spreadsheet template, and a scientific abstract template. The DS comprises an integrated set of theoretical and practical activities that foster student agency, critical thinking, and an understanding of the environmental impacts resulting from microplastic pollution. The teaching materials developed may serve as a formative resource for teachers seeking to integrate environmental education and scientific literacy into their pedagogical practices; therefore, their dissemination and accessibility are essential.