The chemistry of alcoholic beverages: a study case

Abstract

The Study Case (SC) method emerges as a potential tool for teaching science, as it encourages self-directed learning and fosters skills, such as problem solving and critical thinking. The present work aims to analyze the contributions of the case “The chemistry of alcoholic drinks" to the learning and teaching of chemistry in high school. The application of this case was carried out in a school in Itabuna/ BA, for students in a 3rd year class of high school, by students from the Chemistry area of ​​the State University of Santa Cruz. To achievethis goal, a questionnaire was applied and analyzed using Discursive Textual Analysis (ATD). This analysis generated four emerging categories, named: Separation of Mixtures, Biochemical Processes, Characteristics of Alcohol. Through these categories it was possible to see that the students understood the chemical reactions that permeate the development of the alcoholic beverage, demonstrating interest in the data presented. An experiment was presented in the classroom with the goal to the students to join in the discussions, thus having the opportunity to be active subjects and participants in the teaching and learning process.