THE USE OF PITFALL TRAPS AS A TEACHING TOOL IN SCIENCE EDUCATION
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18554/nqyqwa30Keywords:
: science education, insects, biodiversity, environmental education, scientific methodologyAbstract
This study aimed to develop and apply the use of pitfall traps as a teaching tool in the study of Science for elementary school students. The traps were made with 12 plastic containers measuring 5 cm in diameter by 5 cm in height, covered by plastic crates with side holes, containing a 75% alcohol solution and neutral detergent. Pieces of beef (+ 0.25 mm³) were used as bait to attract insects. The investigation included everything from the construction of the equipment to the analysis of the ecological importance of the captured insects, and was conducted in three environments: an urban backyard, an external institutional warehouse, and an urban building. Although the students did not participate in the construction of the traps, they followed the results with enthusiasm. After five days of exposure, orders such as Blattodea, Psocoptera, Homoptera, Aphididae, Lepidoptera, Diptera, and Coleoptera were captured. The methodology proved to be effective in teaching ecological concepts and scientific practices, arousing students' interest beyond theory; promoting an understanding of biodiversity and the importance of insects in environmental balance. Data analysis led to classroom discussions, encouraging students to reflect on ecological patterns and the importance of conservation.
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