Contextualization

Science, throughout the centuries, has been a strong ally in transforming our lives. From the discovery of fire to the arrival of man on the Moon, there are countless episodes that mark the trajectory of scientific advances. In this project, we will delve into the 'Impacts of Science', focusing on the production of medications and other synthetic materials and how this connects to our daily lives.

Medications and synthetic materials are products whose existence is directly linked to advances in science and technology. They arise from the need to solve problems or seek improvements for human life. In the case of medications, for example, they are created to treat diseases and improve people's health. Synthetic materials have numerous applications, including the production of plastics, fabrics, and paints.

Science has also brought numerous benefits to our daily lives. From machines that facilitate household work to sophisticated communication systems, passing through the production of food and medications, science is present in all aspects of our lives. However, it also raises important questions about the socio-environmental impacts of its discoveries and innovations.

Scientific and technological development plays an indispensable role in the construction of our society. The evolution of this area has provided significant advances, such as the creation of medications that increase human life expectancy and the emergence of synthetic materials that provide greater comfort and practicality in our daily lives.

However, it is essential that we know how to balance the benefits that these discoveries bring us and the possible negative impacts they can cause on the environment. Thus, it is essential that we have a deeper understanding of the subject so that we can act as responsible and conscious citizens.

For further exploration on the topic, here are some reliable sources:

• 'Science and its applications' - available at: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/o-que-e/quimica/o-que-e-ciencia.htm
• 'Science: concept, method, types, and philosophy' - available at: https://www.todamateria.com.br/ciencia/
• 'The chemistry of medications' - available at: http://quimica-na-medicina.info/quimica-medicamentos/

Practical Activity

Activity Title: 'From Bacteria to Antibiotics: A Journey of Discoveries'

Project Objective:

This project aims to provide students with the opportunity to understand how science and technology play a crucial role in the creation of medications, using antibiotics as an example. Students will learn about the production process and the socio-environmental impacts of these medications, as well as their implications in our daily lives.

Project Description:

Student groups will be tasked with researching an antibiotic of their choice. They will investigate how the medication is produced, which bacteria it combats, its impact on human health, and its effect on the environment. The project will involve theoretical research, creating presentations, and group discussions.

Required Materials:

• Internet access for research
• Paper and pencil for notes
• Presentation materials (posters, computer for slides, etc.)

Step-by-Step for Activity Execution:

1. Group Formation: Students should be divided into groups of 3 to 5 people.

2. Antibiotic Selection: Each group must choose an antibiotic to investigate. They can seek help from the teacher for this choice, if necessary.

3. Research: Groups should conduct research on the chosen antibiotic, including:

   • The history of the antibiotic's discovery.
   • The production method.
   • The bacteria impacted by it.
   • The benefits for human health.
   • The potential socio-environmental impacts.

4. Analysis and Discussion: Groups should analyze the collected information and discuss the implications. They need to understand how the production of the antibiotic and its use in society affect the environment and human health.

5. Presentation Development: Students should prepare a presentation that includes all researched aspects. They can use slides, posters, or any other presentation resource.

6. Presentation: Each group presents their findings to the class. Classmates and the teacher can ask questions at the end of each presentation.

Project Deliverables:

Written Report: After the presentation, each group must prepare a report documenting the entire process. The report should follow the suggested format, including: Introduction, Development, Conclusions, and Bibliography used.

Report Formatting:

1. Introduction: Provide context on the topic, specifying the chosen antibiotic, its relevance and real-world application, as well as the objective of this project.

2. Development: Detail the history of the antibiotic, the production process, the impacted bacteria, the benefits for human health, and the socio-environmental impacts. Explain the activity in detail, indicate the methodology used, and finally present and discuss the results obtained.

3. Conclusion: Conclude the work, summarizing the main points, explaining the learnings obtained, and drawing conclusions about the project.

4. Bibliography: Indicate all sources on which you relied for the project, such as books, web pages, videos, etc.

Each group will have a one-month deadline for the project completion and report submission. Remember, the goal of this project is to learn in a playful and interesting way, while developing important skills such as time management, communication, problem-solving, creative thinking, and proactivity.